Queen set to hand duties over to Prince Charles

In a historic move in the royal family, the Queen and Prince Charles' Palace press offices will merge in preparation of Charles gradually taking over the reign from his mother.

A royal insider told the Mirror that the mergence is about passing the baton to the next generation, but this will not be a sudden shift rather a 'gentle succession' that will be borne out over the next few years.

It's also important to note that the Queen, who will soon turn 88 after almost 62 years on the throne, is still working very hard, the aide insisted.

The source also revealed that the Prince of Wales will be doing less of his campaigning and more of the head of state role, and while the Queen is still in excellent health, she is becoming frailer because of her age.

Charles and his wife Camilla will be doing much more of the public work on the Queen's behalf, the royal aide added.

It is also worth noting that Princes William and Harry and Kate Middleton will also take part in the new set-up, with the three assuming more responsibilities.