Kate, Britain’s Princess of Wales, returns to the fore with Christmas carol service

Kate, the wife of heir to the throne Prince William, has only made a handful of public appearances after having major abdominal surgery in January, and then undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy when subsequent tests revealed the presence of cancer.

Last weekend she attended two high-profile Remembrance events to commemorate those who lost their lives in conflict as part of her gradual return to official duties, but the carol service – the fourth she has organised – will be the first major royal event she has hosted herself.

“This year’s service provides a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives,” her office, Kensington Palace, said in a statement.

 

On a solo trip to Africa last week, William said Kate was doing “really well”, and that she had been “amazing” this year.

But he also said it had been “brutal” for the family with Kate’s treatment coming in the wake of his father King Charles’ own cancer diagnosis.

Joining Kate and other members of the royal family at the Westminster Abbey “Together At Christmas” service will The event, which will be broadcast on Britain’s ITV on Christmas Eve, will also feature performances by singers Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean and Gregory Porter