Princess Mary could become Queen of Denmark this year

Danish royal experts are predicting that Queen Margrethe II may abdicate this year, meaning Crown Princess Mary could become Denmark's new Queen sooner than previously thought.

Swedish magazine, Svensk Damtiding says it has spoken to a number of Danish royal insiders who claim the current Queen is contemplating stepping inside because she misses her husband, Prince Henrik. He retired from public life almost a year ago and spends most of his time on a vineyard in his home country of France.

They had not been photographed together for six months before their annual New Year gala dinner. Some suggested that they are no longer living together, but the experts have dismissed these rumours saying Queen Margrethe — who's 76 —  is torn between serving her country and spending time with her 82-year-old husband.

The Queen and the palace are yet to comment on the reports, but when asked recently if she feels lonely without her husband at her side she said: “I can not say I feel lonely. It is clear that it is something completely different when he [Prince Henrik] is with me".

Whether she decides to abdicate or continue with her role as monarch, one thing is certain: her son, Crown Prince Frederik and his wife, Crown Princess Mary are next in line to the Danish throne. Only time will tell.