James Middleton has announced his decision to name a puppy after a member of the royal family, as a "touching tribute" to the late Queen Elizabeth II. The younger brother of the Princess of Wales has spoken out about his newest pup following the death of Her Majesty the Queen on Thursday 8.
James, who has bred dogs since 2011, welcomed eight adorable puppies into the world over the summer, when his golden retriever Mabel gave birth to a healthy litter. One special pup was given a sentimental name, Bertie - after the late monarch's father, George VI, who was known as 'Bertie' to his family and friends.
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James told HELLO! Magazine : "In light of recent events, I wanted a name that is a touching tribute to the late Queen."
The 35-year-old has chosen to give Bertie to Guide Dogs, where he will be trained to support someone with sight loss.
James proudly handed the golden retriever over to the charity's National Centre near Leamington Spa, in the hopes of him eventually becoming a loyal canine companion.
"It was incredible that the Queen dedicated her life to service, and in many ways Bertie the dog will be dedicating his life to service too," James explained.
"It is extraordinary to see how many people's lives Her Majesty touched, not just in our country, but in the Commonwealth and around the world. My eyes have been opened even wider to that."
The entrepreneur added that he was "extremely moved" and is "still taken aback" by the Queen's funeral service on Monday 19.
James and his wife, Alizée Thevenet, also made the decision to cancel their first wedding anniversary celebrations as a mark of respect to Queen Elizabeth II.
In a recent Instagram post, James wrote: "Today is our first wedding anniversary. However it doesn't seem right to celebrate while mourning the loss of Queen Elizabeth II.
'"Instead I'm sharing a photo of the marriage of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh on their wedding 74 years ago.
"To my darling Alizee I look forward to sharing as many with you in our lifetime."
James gifted his sister Kate and her husband, Prince William, a young black cocker spaniel puppy named Orla two years ago.
It was hoped that the eight-month-old pup would give their nine-year-old senior dog Lupo some company and a zest for life, but sadly he passed away shortly after.
Prince George, eight, and Princess Charlotte, seven, are understood to have specially helped pick Orla from the litter of puppies.
The adorable cocker spaniel also appeared in the first official family photo after Prince George was born.
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