Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall has been announced as Patron of The Silver Line, a charity launched by Dame Dame Esther Rantzen to offer information, friendship and advice to older people via a free, confidential helpline.

The appointment coincides with Camilla's 70th birthday, which was marked with a new portrait shot by legendary photographer Mario Testino, and Rantzen commented 'We are absolutely thrilled to have Her Royal Highness’s support for our work... The Duchess has an understanding and empathy for older people who are so often forgotten and undervalued in today’s busy world. She cares about them, and values them as we do'.