Newsmaker

Prince Charles sets record for being next in line

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-04-21 15:51

LONDON - Prince Charles has entered the record books for spending the longest time as heir apparent to the British throne.

The 62-year-old prince achieved the milestone on Wednesday, by which time he had been next in line 59 years, two months and 14 days.

His mother, Queen Elizabeth, is still in good health as she celebrates her 85th birthday on Thursday, so Charles seems a good bet to extend his record significantly.

Charles overtook King Edward VII for the longest wait. Edward had waited 59 years, two months and 13 days to succeed his mother, Queen Victoria.