Fergie the Duchess of York opens up about mother-to-be Princess Eugiene

Princess Eugenie is expecting her first child "early" this year. Photo / Getty Images

Sarah, Duchess of York thinks Princess Eugenie will be a very hands-on mother.

The 61-year-old Duchess has predicted that her 30-year-old daughter will be a "present" mother - just as she was with her own kids.

She shared: "Having not had my own mother around, I've always been determined to be a very present mother with my children, and I know Eugenie will be the same with hers.

"She is incredibly empathetic and will be a great mother. She is a very strong and determined person, always looking for the truth in all she does.

"Her work for the Anti-Slavery Collective is a commitment she steadfastly campaigns for, to give everyone the chance to have a voice."

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The Duchess - who also has Princess Beatrice, 32, with ex-husband Prince Andrew - is dedicating her new book, 'The Adventures of Charlie, Blue and Larry the Lamp Post', to her first grandchild.

She told Us Weekly: "I am bringing out one children's book a month for the next 12 months to create a lovely library for my grandchildren.

"I feel like the luckiest person ever when I can bring a smile to a child's face."

Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank - who tied the knot back in 2018 - are set to welcome their first child together.

And the Duchess is excited to see both of her children enter the next phases of their lives.

She said: "Jack and Eugenie are certainly looking forward to sharing the new baby with the whole family.

"I have always been so close to my girls and it is such a joy to see them embarking on this next phase of their lives. We call ourselves the tripod and it's a real honour to see them grow."