A GREAT deal has been written about Britain's young princes, William and Harry. So it is surprising how little is known about them.

This first full-length biography to be written of the two brothers - its publication timed to fall between the 50th anniversary of the Queen's coronation and William's 21st birthday on June 21 - may change all that.

From their enormously privileged childhood, through the trauma of their parents' divorce and the subsequent death of their mother, to the tabloid gossip and scandals that have dogged our perception of the Royals in recent years, Royal expert Ingrid Seward examines the lives of the two young men who are second and third in line to the throne.

The picture that emerges is of two quite different young men: a younger brother who revels in his Royal status and an older brother and heir apparent on whom the burdens of Royalty sit much less happily.

Illustrated with intimate and touching photos, this is a must read for anyone with an interest in the young man who will one day become King.

Updated: 10:53 Wednesday, June 11, 2003