Prince William: Royal family shares pictures of Duke of Cambridge's major milestones as he turns 40

The royal family has shared photographs of Prince William's major milestones in honour of his 40th birthday.

"Happy Birthday to The Duke of Cambridge!" a message on the monarchy's Twitter account read.

"As the second in line to the throne turns 40, learn more about His Royal Highness."

A number of posts followed, describing key moments in his life.

The accompanying pictures showed William as a newborn, after graduating from university, at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, as a Search and Rescue helicopter pilot and on the day of his wedding.

One of the snapshots, which was released a few days ago for Father's Day, shows him smiling with his children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

The posts also highlighted William's charity work and his focus on the environment, young people and mental health.

Prince Charles and Camilla's Twitter account also wished William a "very happy 40th birthday".

Clarence House's account shared photographs of Charles holding newborn William outside the Lindo Wing, the pair on a ski-lift together, on the palace balcony with the royal family and William with his arm around Charles.

In a recent article in the Big Issue, the duke talked about what his 40th birthday means to him.

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"I have always believed in using my platform to help tell those stories and to bring attention and action to those who are struggling," he said.

"I plan to do that now I'm turning 40, even more than I have in the past.

"So, for my part, I commit to continue doing what I can to shine a spotlight on this solvable issue not just today, but in the months and years to come."

He was seen selling the Big Issue on the streets of London earlier this month.