OHMYGOSSIP — Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands has become the new patron of Dutch Windmills, replacing her late son Prince Friso. The 76-year-old royal has succeeds her late son Prince Friso, who was patron of the country’s iconic structure from 2005 until he passed away one year ago.
The Dutch Windmill Association, Vereniging De Hollandsche Molen, has confirmed the former queen has landed the special role which is no doubt close to her heart.
In a press release announcing the news, the Vereniging said: “We have a long tradition of royal patronage.”
The prince passed away in August 2013 after spending a year in a coma following a skiing accident.
Friso suffered a hypoxic brain injury after being struck by an avalanche in February 2012 and was buried for 15 minutes.
As well as her son, her late husband Prince Claus – who died in 2002 – was also patron of Dutch Windmills from 1982 until he died.
What’s more, Queen Beatrix – the princess’ mother – was a previous patron of Dutch Windmills, while the first ever patron was Prince Hendrik, who landed the role in 1923.