Countess of Wessex receives birthday cake on school visit

The Countess of Wessex looked delighted as she was presented with a birthday cake during a school visit.

The surprise came from children at the Connaught Junior School in Bagshot, Surrey, on Thursday – a day ahead of Sophie’s 58th birthday.

During the visit, which is helping to mark the school’s 60-year anniversary, she also planted a cherry blossom tree and heard about projects that the children are working on.

Sophie was also greeted by Toffee, the school dog, who happily did tricks for her – including doing a high five and barking on command.

A spokesman said: “Toffee has a great impact on wellbeing at Connaught, alongside Bubbles the rabbit and Poggy and Gizmo the guinea pigs.”

Sophie was also given a plate made in the pottery room by a Year 5 pupil.