Princess Eugenie melts hearts with never-before-seen photos of son Ernie, 3, in special tribute for 'golden boy'

Princess Eugenie melted hearts on Saturday when she shared a selection of adorable photos of her youngest son, Ernie, as he marked his third birthday.

In a selection of photos, the young royal could be seen playing with blue balloons and a blue football. Another photo saw him walking with his older brother, August, five, with Ernie’s sibling wearing a blue hoodie with the hood up. In all three of the photos, Ernie could be seen wearing his signature blue cap.

However, the cutest photo was saved for last, and it featured the proud mum-of-two and her son sharing a kiss on the lips while standing underneath a tree covered with autumnal leaves.

In a gorgeous tribute to her son, Eugenie said: “Happy 3rd birthday to my tiger loving, hat wearing, constantly hugging, fearless golden boy Ernie. You light up every room with your deep voice and infectious smile.”

Princess Eugenie kissing son Ernest on the lips — Eugenie shared an adorable photo of herself with her young son

Fans were quick to coo over the sweet photos, as one enthused: “Happy birthday, may he have bountiful of opportunities and always make clear progression in all avenues of life,” while a second added: “Wishing you the happiest of birthdays Ernest – may your day be filled with happy memories and lots of cake!!!!!”

Many others wished the youngster a happy birthday, while some noted that he would be a good “older brother” to Eugenie’s third child, who she is currently pregnant with.

Two young boys walkinf down a path — Ernest is the younger sibling of August

Eugenie’s recent pregnancy

Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, confirmed that they were expecting again on 4 May. A statement from Buckingham Palace read: ” Her Royal Highness Princess Eugenie and Mr Jack Brooksbank are very pleased to announce that they are expecting their third child together, due this summer.

“August (aged five) and Ernest (aged two) are also very excited to have another sibling join the family. His Majesty The King has been informed and is delighted with the news.”

The mother-of-two also took to social media to share the news, posting an adorable photograph of her two sons looking at a scan of the baby, with the caption: “Baby Brooksbank due 2026!” followed by a series of hearts and a baby emoji.

The baby will be 15th in line to the throne, moving Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, down to 16th place. Despite its place in the royal running, the baby will not be an HRH.