Britain’s Earl Spencer is to close the museum he set up in honour of Princess Diana.
The brother of the late princess – who died in a Paris car crash in 1997 – will close the exhibition at their family home at Althorp next year and plans to hand over its contents to his nephews, Princes William and Harry.
A spokesperson confirmed: ”It will close worldwide in August 2014. ”It has been admired by thousands of people around the world, and has been a wonderfully tasteful celebration of the late Diana, Princess of Wales’ life and achievements – particularly her charitable works and her glamour”
The collection includes 28 of Diana’s dresses, two tiaras and other priceless family jewels as well as pictures, letters and home movies and the Earl says he is honouring his sister’s wishes in handing over the items.
He claims Diana’s will stated he should look after her belongings until both her sons turned 30 – the milestone which Harry reaches next year – and then transfer them into their possession.
The closing of the museum has sparked speculation that Diana’s clothes and other belongings will eventually go on display at Kensington Palace, where the princess lived until her death and where William and his wife Duchess Catherine are to set up home.