Joy as Benedict Cumberbatch to marry Sophie Hunter

The mum of Edinburgh theatre director Sophie Hunter has spoken of her joy at her daughter’s engagement to Sherlock Holmes star Benedict Cumberbatch.

Benedict Cumberbatch. Picture: PA

Speaking on behalf of the family, Katharine Hunter, who lives in Stockbridge, said: “ All we want to say is we’re just really happy for them.

“It’s a fabulous day.”

Cumberbatch shattered the hopes of female fans around the world after announcing he is to marry his girlfriend Sophie.

The star, 38, headed to the Capital recently to seek the blessing of the theatre director’s mother for the marriage to her daughter.

The Sherlock star, who has a global army of fans jokingly referred to as “Cumberbitches”, made the announcement in a small notice in The Times newspaper.