It's six today for birthday boy Louis, the prince of royal mischief

These have been tough times for the Wales family, with Catherine still undergoing cancer treatment and the Monarchy stretched thin. 

But there will be an outbreak of much-needed celebration today when their youngest child, Prince Louis.

Louis, brother to George, ten, and Charlotte, eight, turns six today. 

Not that Charlotte will be eight for very much longer; there will be more cake and candles in just over one week's time when, on May 2, she has her ninth birthday.

In just a few short years, Louis has already delighted the public, lifting our spirits with his cheeky attitude  and energetic, wholehearted reactions, while the rest of his family observe the decorum of the moment. 

Here, then, are some of the magic moments have made us smile - and a reminder of why this particular birthday boy  is such a favourite.

1. Digging for victory

A hole-hearted Prince Louis concentrates hard as William does some digging at the  Big Help Out in the days following the Coronation

2. Barrow boy Prince 

Prince Louis gets into the spirit of things with some serious shovelling

Leave it to me:  Louis  seems to take control  he helps his Kate create a path

3. Louis takes the biscuit

On sampling duty with marshmallow biscuits as Catherine marshalls the barbeque

4. A bit of Christmas spirit

Prince Louis had  smiles for everyone on his first church outing on Christmas Day

5. Look what I got...

Louis looks uncertain about this gonk-style father Christmas...

6. A big hand

A wave to the crowds on his Grandfather's big day

7. And for my next act...

Was he waving or dancing ? The crowds loved it, even in the rain

8. Won't someone make it stop?

Possibly the funniest episode on the balcony down the year, with the late Queen seemingly  unaware of her great-grandson's antics