Kate delivers her first public address; interacts with hospice children during play therapy
Picture from Reuters (L) & Getty Images (R)

The Duchess of Cambridge has capped off her six-week crop of solo engagement with another very significant rite of passage — delivering her first public speech.  It was for a charity of which she is patron, East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), for which she opened a new centre, The Treehouse, in Ipswich.

The verdict?  Not bad.  Nerves were evident, as she confessed later, and someone said her hands were shaking, but she managed to deliver a slow and heartfelt speech praising the charity as an “inspiration” and thanking them for inviting her as patron.  The speech was very carefully rehearsed and delivered.  More importantly, Kate is said to have written the piece herself.  Well done, Kate!

Other than the speech, Kate also joined in with art and music classes at a new children’s facility, displaying the kind of up-close personal affection that endeared her to the people. The charity’s chief executive Graham Butland said Kate had met with the terminally-ill child and his parents in private. “She was absolutely magnificent with the children and families. She seems to have the ability to just drop into a group of people and immediately be able to establish a rapport.”

After that, another first– planting a tree at the grounds of the hospice — her first in the country. No doubt She’ll plant many more trees and give many more speeches in the years to come.

On a side note, much focus was given to Kate’s choice of wardrobe – an electric blue Reiss dress first seen on her mum Carole Middleton in Ascot 2010. The palace later confirmed that it was Carole who borrowed Kate’s dress, and not the other way around.

William returns from the Falklands very soon, and the couple are going under the radar for a bit to catch up and spend some time together. Thus ends Kate’s busy 6 weeks of solo engagements.

Other Videos:

• BBC News report: The Duchess of Cambridge in Ipswich
• CNN: The Duchess of Cambridge passes first speech ordeal
• Telegraph: Kate paints and plays music with hospice children
• Today: Comparison between Kate & Diana’s first speeches

• The Duchess of Hearts: Kate privately meets with terminally ill boy
• Duchess of Cambridge Reiss dress that her mother borrowed for first public speech
• East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices report on Kate’s visit
• Get Kate’s EACH charity bracelet here. Ships worldwide

Photoset: Getty ImagesRelated Posts:

• Duchess of Cambridge Announces Patronages
• William & Kate Join Danish Royals for Unicef’s East Africa Appeal
• The Duchess of Cambridge Shines in First Month of Solo Engagements
• Starlight and Party Pieces
• William & Kate Dazzle at ARK Charity Gala

1 March 2012
Piccadilly

Royal trifecta: The Queen, Camilla & Kate in Piccadilly. Getty Images

It was a big day for royal watchers.  Three generations of the most senior royal ladies — The Queen, and two future Queen consorts, stepped out to take tea together in Piccadilly.

Her Majesty, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duchess of Cambridge visited London department store Fortnum & Mason in their first joint royal engagement. They went there to officially rename a restaurant within the shop on Piccadilly and to meet some of those who worked in the store at the time of the coronation.

Interestingly, The Queen, Kate and Camilla arrived in the same car and dressed in different shades of blue!

Inside the store, the royals met staff and former employees. Her Majesty spent time in the preserve section, discussing honey with one member of staff.   The focus for Kate and Camilla was the sweet section.

Toward the end, the royal trio were each presented with a Fortnum’s hamper, containing delicacies including champagne truffles – and dog biscuits!  All three are known dog lovers.  While the Queen is known for her love of corgis, Kate and William recently acquired a cocker spaniel pup they have named Lupo.

Videos:

• Sky: Royals at Fortnum & Mason
• Telegraph: Queen, Kate & Camilla in coordinated blue for tea
• BBC: Footage from inside Fortnum & Mason + plaque unveiling

Articles with Pictures:

• Girls’ day out for the Queen, Camilla & Kate as they visit F&M
• Kate talks chocolates & dog biscuits at Fortnum & Mason
• Kate reveals she & William have been trying out their tandem Boris bike at their back garden

Photoset: Getty Images

8 March 2012
Leicester

Pictures from Getty Images

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee visit kicked on in grand style.  Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh were accompanied by The Duchess of Cambridge to Leicester, the first region on the Queen’s visit list.  Arriving by train, the royal party was welcomed by a 5,000-strong crowd and dancers.

Their first stop was at De Monfort University, where Kate and the Queen were seen chatting comfortably during a student fashion show.  Later Kate chose the winner of a contest to design a shoe for her.   They later emerged in the Leicester sunshine to greet the crowds.  It was a glorious start for Her Majesty’s Jubilee tours, and she and Kate are clearly getting on quite well.  It’s significant to point out that The Queen has rarely, if ever, done joint engagements alone with Princess Diana or Camilla.

Queen's Diamond Jubilee Gifts

Videos:

• Sky: Philip & Kate join Queen to start Diamond Jubilee Tour
• BBC: Crowds mark start of Jubilee tour
• Telegraph: Queen & Kate start Diamond Jubilee Tour in Leicester

Articles & Pictures

• Duchess of Cambridge shines as she joins the Queen & Duke of Edinburgh in Leicester
• Kate reveals she’s missing Prince William “terribly”
• Deafening cheers greet Kate and Queen at University
• “Kate effect” spices up first stop on Jubilee tour

Photoset: Getty Images

15 March 2012
Dulwich Picture Gallery

Charles & Kate: domestic partners in crime. Photo: Getty Images

Kate stepped out for the first time with the Prince of Wales and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, to visit one of Charles’s charities. The idea was to celebrate their shared love of the arts and children at Dulwich Picture Gallery in south London, but the royal party soon found themselves roped into some domestic duties.

The royals spoke to children taking part in Face Britain, as part of the Great Art Quest, which sees them make self-portraits which will be beamed on to the front of Buckingham Palace in April to mark the start of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

After that, the royal trio got domestic. Iron art! Looks like Kate has had some experience with ironing, but we’re not so sure the same thing can be said about Prince Charles. See hilarious video below.

The royal pair also got holed up cutting up lace for some art work.

Royal pair cutting lace. Getty Images

Jeremy Newton, chief executive of The Prince’s Foundation for Children and the Arts, said: “It was fantastically exciting. Both the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall have spent quite a bit of time finding out about the charity, but it was the first time the Duchess of Cambridge had come to see us.”

“Obviously the children adore her, and she adores the children. She greatly enjoyed seeing their artwork. All of the pupils are saying they will never forget this day, as long as they live. It’s been a complete revelation for them that royals are normal people. They’ve had a lovely time.”

Video: Charles & Kate make iron art at gallery (must see!)

Articles & Pictures:

• Ironing Kate & Charles at Children’s Art Charity
• Royal Family bonding: Kate gets close with William’s kin
  

 Related Posts:

• Royals Meet the Media
• The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee (Details)
• Photo Alert: Mario Testino has taken Official Engagement Photos of William & Kate
• Prince Charles & Camilla’s Official Visit to Portugal, Spain & Morocco
• The Queen is the Second Longest Reigning Monarch

(Left) The Bahamas: formal call on the Governor-General & Prime Minister & Cabinet in Nassau
(Right) Jamaica: dancing with Chantol Dormer at a youth community center in Kingston
Pictures: Getty Images

Jamaica: Harry (had a head started) & beat world champion runner Usain Bolt!
Picture: Getty Images

 

(Left) Jamaica: Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller embraced Harry despite her earlier calls for a Republic
(Right) Brazil: Showing his mother’s common touch as he bonds with children in a “favela”
Pictures: Getty Images

(Left) Brazil: participating in a game of beach volleyball
(Right) Brazil:  Well done, Harry! Thumbs up after getting a kiss from Brazilian model after polo
Pictures: Getty Images

Articles:

• Harry: I hope I have done the Queen proud
• Review: The Making of a very modern prince
• Postcards from Prince Harry’s Caribbean tour
• Brazil: Harry ends his tour with a peck in the cheek from a Brazilian model
• Brazil: No dancing as Harry is met by screaming girls in Brazil
• Jamaica: Hot shot Harry – he nearly makes a perfect score at the firing range
• Jamaica: You will see your mother again, Bob Marley’s widow tells Harry
• Jamaica: Harry dances in blue suede shoes, meets Bob Marley’s widow
• Jamaica: Flash Harry beats Usain Bolt in 100m sprint!
• Bahamas: Harry makes friends with blind “student of the year”
• Bahamas: Harry meets Miss Bahamas, after she declares she’d marry the prince
• Belize: Party Prince Harry kicks off Diamond Jubilee tour with street dancing in Belize
• Belize & the Bahamas: Harry takes royal tour of the Caribbean

Queen's Diamond Jubilee Gifts

Videos:

• Sky News: (Brazil) Prince Harry describes “emotional” Jubilee tour
• Brazil: Harry plays polo
• Brazil: Harry plays beach volleyball
• Brazil: Harry runs a race & plays rugby
• Sky News: (Jamaica) Harry skips abseiling exercise after UK soldiers deaths
• Jamaica: Prince Harry’s speech in full, paying tribute to the Queen
• Jamaica: Raw video of Harry (cheating and) beating Usain Bolt in 100m sprint
• Belize & the Bahamas: report + footage
• Belize: Prince Harry parties on Belize visit

Pictures:

• Photosets: Getty Images

 Related Posts:

• Prince Harry’s First Solo Tour Announced
• Prince Harry in Barbados
• Prince Harry’s New York Visit 2010 – (Part 2)
• Zara & Mike’s Wedding
• Kate Middleton Watches Princes William & Harry Play Polo

National Portrait Gallery
8 February 2012

With a degree in History of Art, it seemed only fitting that The Duchess of Cambridge made her first solo appearance visiting London’s National Portrait Gallery, of which she is royal patron. And if she was nervous at striking out on her own nine months after her marriage, it certainly didn’t show.

Kate was attending a private viewing of a new exhibition of portraits by the late Lucian Freud. After facing a large pack of photographers outside, she slipped into the gallery and mingled with arty types including photographer Mary McCartney, Bella Freud, the artist’s daughter, and Jefferson Hack.

It was also announced that the Duchess has agreed to sit for her first portrait. The artist is yet unknown. Perhaps the next time she visits the National Portrait Gallery, she’ll have one of her own hanging on the wall?…

Videos

• Telegraph: raw footage arriving, inside & leaving NPG
• America’s Today Show video report
• America’s ABC, video report

Articles with Pictures

• Telegraph: Duchess of Cambridge’s first solo outing at the NPG
• Daily Mail: Duchess of Cambridge carries out first public engagement without William
• What Kate Wore: Kate in defunct Jesire for the NPG

More Pictures: Getty Images | Rex Features

Action on Addiction + Alder Hey Kids
14 February 2012

It’s Valentine’s Day! And with her husband away in the Falklands, Kate wasn’t short of flowers or hugs in Liverpool. The Duchess visited to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and an Action on Addiction project, the non-alcoholic Brink bar for her second major solo public appearance.

At The Brink, Kate sampled a smoothie named the “Duchess” in her honour, and proclaimed it “seriously good.” She was then serenaded by a resident choir of recovering addicts called the Raucous Caucus Recovery Chorus. Outside, she met her valentine, 8-year-old Jaqson Johnston-Lynch, who presented her with roses, a card and a cupcake. Kate then revealed to the boy and his mother that she’s received flowers and a card from Prince William that morning.

Next stop: Kate wowed a 500-strong crowd by chatting to well-wishers outside Alder Hey Children’s hospital.  She was given a tour of Alder Hey’s burns and oncology units and also visited Ronald McDonald House, which provides free accommodation for the families of some of the hospital’s sickest children.  The visit proved a hit for everyone, as Kate gave children lots of hugs and stayed way past her schedule to give the kids individual time and greet the crowds, who showered her with flowers and gifts.

Videos:

Queen's Diamond Jubilee Gifts

• Telegraph: Cheers greet Kate in Liverpool
• BBC: Report on Kate’s Valentine visit to The Brink
• BBC: Kate taste’s alcohol free smoothie called the “Duchess” at The Brink bar
• BBC: Report on Kate’s Valentine visit to Liverpool (including Alder Hey)
• Guardian: Inside footage from Alder Hey
• CBS: Updates on Kate & Harry from Victoria Arbiter

Articles with Pictures:

• Daily Mail: Kate wins children’s hearts in Liverpool
• The Sun: Kate walks alone for Valentine’s Day
• Express: Caring Kate is the Queen of Hugs on Valentine’s Day
• Telegraph: The Duchess of Cambridge visits Liverpool on Valentine’s Day
• BBC: Kate a hit with Liverpool crowd as she visits charities
• Mirror: From the Falklands with love: William sends Kate card and flowers
• Telegraph: Kate sends Wills underpants (boxer shorts) for Valentine’s
• Telegraph: Could Kate’s Uncle Gary be her inspiration for taking up an addiction patronage?
• What Kate Wore: Kate in Hobbs & Oasis for Liverpool

More Pictures: Getty Images | Goff Photos

The Art Room
21 February 2012

Kate paints with children. Photo from Getty Images

The Duchess of Cambridge put her passion for the arts into practice on her first public engagement as royal patron of The Art Room, which encourages confidence in disadvantaged children.

As the Duchess arrived she was greeted by Juli Beattie, founder and director of The Art Room, who said: “You can’t fail to be charmed by her. She’s a highly independent woman who wants to make a difference.” Two youngsters gave the duchess an apron emblazoned with “Miss Catherine”, a bouquet of flowers, and some dog treats for her new pet. Inside, she was given a stuff animal – a dog, who she decided to name after her own cocker spaniel puppy. And alas, after 2 months of “puppygate,” Clarence House confirms that William & Kate’s dog is named Lupo (Italian for “wolf”)! Yes, it’s Lupo Cambridge, who already has 3 Twitter accounts (funny, active one here) and a website as of this writing.

At Rose Hill Primary School in Oxford, Kate joined eight children who will be working on The Owl And The Pussycat poem by Edward Lear.  The second part of the visit saw her visit the Oxford Spires Academy, where she joined a round-table discussion covering debriefing, training and supervision of all the charity’s staff in Oxford.

Kate is patron of The Art Room. Photo by Reuters

Videos

• ITN: Duchess of Cambridge paints at Oxford school (lots of footage of her speaking)
• BBC: Duchess of Cambridge embraces art in school visit
• Telegraph: Raw footage from the day with students

Articles With Pictures

• Daily Mail: Duchess of Cambridge visits schools as patron of The Art Room
• Express: Kate supports youngsters in need
• Press Association: Kate praised by art charity chief
• Telegraph: Kate smudged in paint after school art visit
• Telegrapah: Duchess of Cambridge reveals new puppy name is Lupo
• What Kate Wore: Kate in Orla Kiely for The Art Room

More Pictures: Getty Images | Rex Features

Next up for Kate: Teaming up with the Queen on March 1 and March 8!

Related Posts:

• Duchess of Cambridge Announces Patronages
• With William Away, Kate Joins Forces with The Queen, Prince Charles
• Queen Elizabeth: 60 Pictures for 60 Years
• Royals at Work – Oct/Nov 2009
• William & Kate Back from Summer Hibernation

On March 2 t0 8, 2012, Harry will travel to Belize, The Bahamas and Jamaica on behalf of The Queen as part of Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.  On March 9 to 11, he will travel to Brazil on the behalf of the British Government

Belize

• 2 March, Friday: Harry arrives in late afternoon; pay a call on the Governor-General; attend lively street party on a new road to be named “HM Queen Elizabeth II Boulevard”, (deliver first speech)
• 3 March, Saturday: visit to the Adjacency Zone on the border between Belize and Guatemala; tour an arts studio; visit to a Mayan pyramid in Xunantunich – climb the pyramid, view a Mayan dance and attend a festival of food, music and arts; canoe launching at the Macal River; visit to military barracks in Ladyville, including reception and wreath-laying

The Bahamas

• 4 March, Sunday: formal call on the Governor-General and the Prime Minister and Cabinet in Nassau;attend a Ecumenical Church Service at Christ Church Cathedral; tour photographic exhibition at Nassau’s central Rawson Square (deliver speech); board fast boat belonging to the Royal Bahamian Defence Force and join in a maritime security exercise.
• 5 March, Monday: attend gathering of young people at the national stadium in Nassau, including a march-past and a cultural performance.; lunchtime reception at the Sheraton Hotel for Bahamian young leaders; visit to the Royal Bahamian Defence Force Base at Coral Harbour, wreath-laying.

Jamaica

• 6 March, Tuesday: Kingston. Visit to Usain Bolt Track at the University of West Indies — meet young athletes and receive coaching from Usain Bolt; open building at the Law Faculty at the University of the West Indies (deliver short remarks); visit to Bustamente Children’s Hospital; private lunch at Devon House; visit to the Queen Victoria Jubilee Hospital to unveil Diamond Jubilee statue; visit Rise Life, an inspirational project for young people; attend a State Dinner hosted by the Governor-General of Jamaica
• 7 March, Wednesday: breakfast with officers of the Jamaican Defence Force; join JDF soldiers for a Close-Quarter Battle simulator, a 30-metre range, and a rapel tower; travel to Falmouth: view some of the tourism opportunities with stops at the William Knibb Memorial Church, St. Peter’s, and Water Square; visit to Good Hope Great House; travel by boat to the Sandals Royal Caribbean hotel in Montego Bay for a reception
• 8 March, Thursday: free day; depart from Jamaica to Brazil in the afternoon

Brazil

• 9 March, Friday: arrive in Rio de Janeiro early morning; attend an event on Sugarloaf Mountain to launch the GREAT campaign in the evening
• 10 March, Saturday: take part in a British-themed sports day on a city-centre beach in Rio — start a Sport Relief mile run; help coach touch rugby; view and take part in a beach volleyball match; community visit in the afternoon; depart for Sao Paolo State in evening
• 11 March, Sunday: play for the Sentebale Polo Cup in the municipality of Campinas; deliver a speech at a post-match lunch.

Prince Harry will then spend a couple of days in the interior of the country, where he will use the time privately.

Information extracted from a statement from Private Secretary Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton.

It was also announced that, due to his military commitments, Prince Harry will NOT be able to join Walking with the Wounded’s expedition to Mount Everest as previously speculated.  Source: Telegraph.  As you may well remember, Harry joined the group for a North Pole Trek last year.

Related Posts:

• Highlights of Prince Harry’s 2012 Tour to the Caribbean & Brazil
• Harry & Chelsy Updates: February 11, 2010
• Prince Harry News Bits: April 1, 2010
• Prince Harry Updates: Lesotho and “Moving In” with Chelsy
• William & Harry Joining World Cup 2010 in South Africa

William & Kate at the War Horse premiere. Photo by Reuters

It is the first official engagement for the Cambridges for 2012.  And it was the Kate’s last night in her 20s, too.  So what did she do?  She joined her husband to their first film premiere as a married couple — War Horse by director Steven Spielberg.

Royal-watchers might recall the couple watching the award-winning play on a date night back in December 2009.  Now turned into a film, the star-studded premiere was a fundraiser for The Foundation of Prince William & Prince Harry.  Hundreds of military personnel were also invited to the event. Ironically, it started pouring moments before William & Kate walked the red carpet, prompting them to share single transparent umbrella under the rain.  The Duchess once again wowed in black lace by Alice Temperley.

After the movie, there was a private reception at Buckingham Palace with William, Kate, cast members and other notables.  The price for mingling with royalty? £10,000 — for charity and the princes’ foundation, of course.

The next day, director Steven Spielberg said in an interview with BBC that Kate teared up during the movie (his wife had to pass her some Kleenex).  It tells a story of a boy and his deep love for his horse Joey (who by the way, also walked the red carpet during the premiere) set against the backdrop of World War I.  No word on William’s reaction on the heart-tugging film.

The Duchess of Cambridge celebrated her milestone 30th birthday privately.  It was reportedly a low-key dinner with William, family and close friends in the grounds of Kensington Palace near their London cottage.  None of those Pippa-and-Harry planned karaoke party stories turned out to be true.

From CBS about Kate’s year + interview with Victoria Aribiter:

The Duchess of Cambridge turns 30. Photo: Getty Images

Other Videos:

• CNN’s report by Max Foster
• Robert Jobson on Sunrise Australia about War Horse, Kate’s birthday
• Steven Spielberg interview (talks about Kate tearing up starting 6:00)

Articles:

• Chivalrous Prince William shields his Duchess from the rain at War Horse premiere
• Duchess of Cambridge wins fashion stakes at War Horse premiere
• Prince William’s speech after the movie
• Steven Spielberg honoured to meet the royals
• Duchess of Cambridge moved to tears by War Horse
• What Kate Wore: Alice Temperley black lace
• Kate enjoyed quiet 30th birthday dinner with William, family & close friends

Pictures:

• Getty Images
• Daylife
• My Royals (large pics)

Other Links:

• War Horse (movie) website
• The Foundation of Prince William & Prince Harry

• William, Harry & Kate Sneak Into Sherlock Holmes Premiere
• Fergie & Daughters Attend ‘Young Victoria’ Premiere
• Kate Middleton at “Tenacity on the Tasman” Premiere & After Party
• Chelsy Davy Back in the UK
• Royals at Work – Oct/Nov 2009

My thoughts on the choices? — Very fitting and very well thought out.  They seem to fit her interests (the arts, children & the outdoors) and complement William’s work nicely.  Very promising start!

Here are the lucky selected ones:

Action on Addiction

• What they do: Addiction is the biggest preventable killer in the UK.  Action on Addiction is the only charity working across the addiction field in research, prevention, treatment, professional education, support for families and children and campaigns. Their vision is to free people from addiction and its effects.
• Announcement of Kate’s involvement:Action on Addiction is delighted to announce the patronage of HRH The Duchess of Cambridge
• Website:http://www.actiononaddiction.org.uk
• Accounts:Twitter | Facebook

The Art Room

• What they do: The Art Room offers art as therapy to children and young people between the ages of 5 and 16, to raise their self-esteem, self-confidence and independence.
• Announcement of Kate’s involvement: HRH The Duchess of Cambridge becomes Royal Patron of The Art Room
• Website: http://www.theartroom.org.uk/
• Accounts: Twitter | Facebook

East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices

• What they do: EACH supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk. They provide care and support wherever the family wishes – in families’ own homes, in hospital or at one of their hospices

• Announcement of Kate’s involvement:EACH is extremely honourned & proud that The Duchess of Cambridge has accepted the honorary position of Royal Patron
• Website:http://www.each.org.uk
• Accounts:Twitter

National Portrait Gallery

• About the NPG: Founded in 1856, the aim of the National Portrait Gallery is “to promote through the medium of portraits the appreciation and understanding of the men and women who have made and are making British history and culture, and … to promote the appreciation and understanding of portraiture in all media.”

• Website:http://www.npg.org.uk
• Accounts:Twitter | Facebook | Flickr | Youtube

On top of these four charities, Kate has volunteered her private time for the Scouts, and will be working with the younger group – cub and beaver scouts – during her private time in North Wales and other areas when situations permi

Scouts

• About Scouts: The Scout Association provides adventurous activities and personal development opportunities for 400,000 young people aged 6-25. Internationally, they have over 28 million young people enjoying the benefits of Scouting  across 216 countries. Personal development means promoting the physical, intellectual, social and spiritual well-being of the individual, helping them achieve their full potential.
• Announcement of Kate’s involvement:Meet the Scouts’ latest volunteer!
• Website: http://www.scouts.org.uk
• Accounts: UK Scouts

Other Videos featuring Kate’s chosen charities:

• Sky News
• Daily Post UK
• Today Show
• ABC News

Articles:

• Press release from Clarence House
• Guardian: Duchess of Cambridge announces which charities to support; undergoes criminal background check to volunteer for Scouts
• Daily Mail: Ex-Brownie Kate to help with cooking & campfires as package of royal patronages is unveiled
• Express: Why Kate chose her charities
• East Anglia Children’s Hospices parent says Kate will make a “natural mother”

Related Posts:

• The Duchess of Cambridge Shines in First Month of Solo Engagements
• The Duchess of Cambridge Delivers First Speech
• Kate Shines in First Military Role as Royal
• Royal Wedding: A Day to Remember
• With William Away, Kate Joins Forces with The Queen, Prince Charles

The Queen shows a brave face at Sandringham this Christmas as her husband
(pictured this month) continues to recover in hospital. Pictures: PA

In the absence of his father, Prince Charles leads the walk to St Mary Magdalene Church.
Picture: Reuters

It was the largest Royal Christmas for decades as a crowd of 3,000 — three times the size of last year (partly due to better weather and undoubtedly inspired by their latest addition, the Duchess of Cambridge) — gathered at Sandringham this year to greet the Royal Family.  All of the family was expected to be there, too — Her Majesty, all her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, plus the 2 latest additions – Kate and Mike Tindall.  Sadly, on 23 December, the head of the family, the Duke of Edinburgh, had to be rushed to a hospital for an emergency heart stenting after experiencing chest pains. He missed Christmas this year.  And for the first time in 55 years, the Queen spent Christmas apart from her husband. The Duke remained in “high spirits,” “anxious to leave”, and insisted that the show must go on.

In an unexpected move, the whole family attended an earlier service on Christmas morning (thought to be fore communion)  before heading back, changing clothes, and returning for the formal Christmas service.  In the absence of his father, Prince Charles & Camilla led the walk to St Mary Magdalene Church, followed by William, Kate and Harry.

It’s the Duchess of Cambridge’s first Christmas at Sandringham — and she was a hit!
Pictures: Alan Davidson, Reuters

A crowd of 3,000 — 3 times the size of last year — gathered to see William & Kate
Picture: Alan Davidson

The royal newlyweds Zara & Mike Tindall, and William & Kate (dressed down for an earlier service that morning)
Pictures: Getty Images, Ken Goff

After the service, the family received (an unusually large number of) flowers, cards, gifts and well wishes from the crowd.  A lot of them, of course, are there to see Kate for the first time. Veteran royal-watcher Mary Relph, said: “I have never seen queues like this on Christmas Day before, I have never seen this amount of people here since Diana was alive. People obviously came to see Kate Middleton. And she was fantastic.“  Journalist Alison Croose agreed: “I have not seen crowds like this since back into the Diana days. It reminded me of the Diana years – when Diana introduced Prince William to the crowds when he was about seven or eight. It was touching. Diana used to have her hand on his back. Now you see William with his hand on Kate’s back. It was really nice.”

Prince Harry, the most eligible royal bachelor, brought cheers when he kissed a girl on the cheek.  When her friend asked for a peck too he replied with a grin: “I can’t give you a kiss, I just kissed her.”

After Christmas lunch, all of the Duke’s grandchildren — William, Harry, Beatrice, Eugenie, Peter and Zara — drove to Papworth Hospital to visit him.  Her Majesty and their children — Charles, Anne, Andrew and Edward — had seen him the day before.  And then it’s back to Sandringham to continue with the holiday plans, including the traditional Boxing Day shoot.  On with the show without a lot of fuss — just as the Duke would have wanted it.

Update: The Duke of Edinburgh was released from hospital on 27 December.  He spent 4 nights in Papworth Hospital.

Other Videos:

• Sky: Video recap of Christmas with royals (best, most footage)
• Raw video: Royals at Sandringham (arriving/leaving church, meeting crowd)
• Video from Sandringham spectator (shows royals passing, including, Harry, William & Kate)
• BBC recap (Prince Philip in hospital, royals in Sandringham, Queen’s Christmas messsage)

Queen's Diamond Jubilee Gifts

Picture Sets:

• (Christmas gathering):  Getty Images | Rex Features | Isopix
• (Royal grandchildren visiting Prince Philip): Getty Images

Articles:

• Daily Mail: Prince Philip in hospital as Kate spends first Christmas as a royal
• The Sun: Kate’s great, but Prince Philip waits
• Sky: Royal grandchildren visit Duke in hospital after Sandringham festivities
• Mirror: Kate in mulled wine outfit for first royal Christmas
• Prayers for Philip as thousands gather to see the Queen, William & Kate on Christmas Day (includes small videos)
• Kate opts for festive berry shade to celebrate first Christmas with the royals
• Kate dazzles in gold drop earrings at Sandringham Christmas
• On 24 December, William played football (team won) at Sandringham. (Harry & Kate appeared at the end according to a few spectators but weren’t photographed)
• Prince Philip’s life-saving heart procedure

Related Posts:

• Sandringham Officers Seize Cameras During Sunday Church with Royals
• Christmas 2009 for the Royals
• Christmas 2010 for the Royal Family
• The Royal Family’s New Generation
• William & Kate Dazzle at ARK Charity Gala

Photo by Harriet Armstrong, Centrepoint

Photos by AP/Getty Images (left) & Geoff Pugh (right)

Need proof why William will make a good king?  It’s right in his dance (and his ability to reach out to people of all classes)

During the 2-hour visit William invented the ‘swag dance’ which involves brushing imaginary dust off your shoulders to signal you have trendy clothes. He was asking Vanessa Boateng, 18, about his wedding suit. The teenager, a trainee nursery nurse who moved to the Foyer after family problems, said: “William asked us what we thought about what he wore to his wedding. He said, was his suit dapper? “I said: ‘No, your swag was on point.’ He repeated my words and said ‘swag’, then he started doing this dance.” Later during a reception for many of the Foyer’s 80 residents the royal called Miss Boateng over.  William and Vanessa performed the dance to screams and cheers.

Kate made her own impact on another teen.  While William & Kate joined a group decorating biscuits, Kate made a heart shape cookie from icing and covered it with sprinkles. She presented it to Tasha Barbi, who was celebrating her 18th birthday, saying: “This is for your birthday – a birthday cookie.” Miss Barbi, a travel and tourism student, said: “Catherine made me this birthday cookie – it’s beautiful. I’m going to cherish it – it really means a lot to me. I’m never eating it”

Photo: Getty Images

Other Videos:

• Sky News (includes William’s swag dance)
• BBC News
• Telegraph

Exclusive Pictures: From Centrepoint (must see)
Picture Sets: Getty Images (outside) | Getty Images (inside)
Large Pictures: My Royals

Articles:

• Daily Mail: Duchess of Cambridge chic as she and William visit homeless shelter
• Mirror: William & Kate visit Centrepoint homeless refuge for cookery lesson
• The Sun: William & Kate visit homeless shelter
• Like father, like son. William is a chip off the old block as he shows off his urban swag moves
• What Kate Wore: Kate in Ralph Lauren for Centrepoint visit
• Fashion verdict: Kate at Centrepoint

Related Posts:

• Prince William Celebrates with Centrepoint
• Prince William Slept Out in London Street at -4C temperature to Raise Awareness
• Prince William an Inspiration to Young Homeless
• Royals at Work: March 2010
• Prince William Photo Collaboration for Homeless Charity

William, Kate & Harry at the Sun Military Awards, 19 December 2011
Pictures from Getty Images

The 2011 Sun Military Awards (Millies) was given a HUGE royal treat — William, Kate & Harry together, dressed to their nines.   For many royal watchers, nothing beats the charm of this dynamic trio. The Awards were held at the Imperial War Museum, honoring the nation’s military as well as civilians involved with the armed forces.  Prince Harry gave a moving speech, while William & Kate presented an award to Sgt. Ryan McCready for Most Outstanding Solder.Videos below.

More Videos:

• Footage of William, Kate & Harry from the VIP reception
• Footage of William, Kate & Harry from the after party
• Video: the Royal arrival

Kate dazzled in a black velvet, strapless (wow!) McQueen gown, which showed off her gorgeously toned arms and shoulders.  And a pleasant treat — she wears some serious bling for the first time!  A matching set of diamonds & rubies glittered from her neck and wrist.  They’re said to be part of her “personal collection,” a gift for her wedding.  More fashion details from What Kate Wore.

Queen's Diamond Jubilee Gifts

• They cried with pride: royals & celebs moved by heroes (remember to click on “Slide Show” for some exclusive pics)
• Duchess of Cambridge brings festive sparkle at bravery awards
• Kate’s black gown strikingly similar to what Diana wore 30 years ago
• Kate shows super fit arms & shoulders at Millies
• Prince Harry is ready to fight in the front line for the second time
• Kate chats with David Beckham at the Millies
• Kate is a fan of Military Wives track
• Kate shows she hasn’t fallen behind in the bottom stakes against Pippa

Picture sets: Getty Images | Zimbio
Large pics: IB Times | Duchess Kate blog

Related Posts:

• William and Harry Attend Military Awards
• William Passes Flying Exams
• Gossip, Rants & Magazine Covers
• Prince William Shows Off his Dance Moves at Centrepoint
• William & Kate Attend War Horse Premiere on the Eve of her 30th Birthday

Pictures by Arthur Edwards (left) & Reuters (right)

Take That’s Gary Barlow performed a pop concert in aid of  The Prince’s Charities & The Foundation of Prince William & Prince Harry — and two pairs of royals came out to show their support. The gigs are raising funds so that the Trust can invest £2.5million in helping five areas that were hit the hardest during the August riots in London, Manchester and Birmingham.

Prince Charles, Camilla, William & Kate (the first time all four appeared together publicly) were guests of honour for the charity concert in Royal Albert Hall last night.  They met with Gary Barlow before the show started, and spoke with performers after.

The singer told William: “I hope you enjoy tonight and I hope it’s not too loud.” William replied joking: “The louder the better, the louder the better.”

The Duchess of Cambridge looked stunning in a short black and tan dress costing just £69.99 from Zara.

Videos:

Queen's Diamond Jubilee Gifts

• Telegraph: purpose of concert + footage with royals
• CNN: includes footage of backstage meet & greet
• Good Morning America: pregnancy speculation continues
• Today Show: includes Christmas at Sandringham report
• Early Show: straightens Pippa-Sandringham rumors
• Press Association: raw video of royal arrival

Articles:

• Daily Mail: Leggy Kate’s all dressed up for Royal Albert Hall charity concert
• Daily Mail: Prince Charles left amused with Peter Kay’s jokes (includes pictures of backstage meet-and-greet)
• Mirror: Kate flashes her legs at Gary Barlow gig in Zara dress
• The Sun: Gary Barlow’s show gets royal approval
• Express: Kate is a mini marvel on a royal date with Gary Barlow
• What Kate Wore: Kate wears Zara mini dress & Ralph Lauren jacket

Pictures: Zimbio | Getty Images | Rex Features

Related Posts:

• Kate Middleton Attends Christmas Carol Charity Concert
• May Wedding for Zara Phillips & Mike Tindall?
• Fergie & Daughters Attend ‘Young Victoria’ Premiere
• William & Kate 2011 Canadian Tour: Day 2 (Canada Day)
• Prince William Visits New Zealand

The Queen & The Duchess of Cambridge, both in green as they meet the media.
Pictures from Getty Images

Queen's Diamond Jubilee Gifts

Articles with Pictures:

• Royals meet the press in preparation for HM’s Diamond Jubilee next year
• What Kate Wore: Kate wears Mulberry to meet the press
• Kate and her Mulberry peace & love dress: fashion verdict
• Why Camilla is fit to be Queen (opinion of Express correspondent Camilla Tominey)

Video:

• Raw video of the royals’ interaction with the media: includes conversations with Her Majesty, Camilla, William & Kate

Olympic Role for William, Kate &  Harry

Watch out for the Olympic power trio!

Prince William, Kate, and Prince Harry are joining forces in promoting the 2012 Games. All three young royals, who enjoy playing and watching sport, will help to rally public support for Britain’s athletes before, ­during and after the Olympics and Paralympics.

William, Kate and Harry are expected to visit team training camps in the run-up to the Games, attend some of the main events in London next ­summer, and champion the search for future Olympic stars. They join an elite group of 27 of this country’s most inspirational medal-winning Olympians as official ambassadors for Team GB and Paralympics GB.

Article: Express

Prince Harry & Chelsy Davy together in 2010

Prince Harry Meets up with Chelsy Davy

Back from training  in the US, Prince Harry bumped into ex-girlfriend (???) Chelsy Davy at The Henry Van Straubenzee Memorial carol concert at St Luke’s Church in Chelsea, London. The pair were seen greeting each other with a friendly hug and kiss as they attended the event of which Harry is a patron for the charity. A large gathering from the royal circle was there. Carole and Pippa Middleton were also present.

After the charity event, Harry & Chelsy met up at The Brompton Club until 2:30am. They went home separately.

Article: Daily Mail
Pictures: Celebrity-GossipRelated Posts:

• Royals at Work – Oct/Nov 2009
• Prince Charles & Camilla’s Official Visit to Portugal, Spain & Morocco
• Royals at Work – Oct 2009
• Kate Middleton & Camilla Have Lunch
• Trooping the Colour 2011