In just a matter of weeks, the Princess of Wales will take centre stage as she hosts one of her much-loved events.
Kate, who finished her chemotherapy treatment in the summer and is gradually returning to public duties as she recovers from cancer, will be holding her fourth annual Christmas Carol Concert at Westminster Abbey. The princess set her sights on being able to stage the Together At Christmas service in 2024 despite the health challenges she has faced, and it forms part of her gradual return to royal life. The theme of this year’s service will reflect on “how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives.”
Kate at the Diplomatic Corps reception last year ( Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
And according to royal expert and author Katie Nicholl, focusing on work has been hugely important to Kate as she continues her recovery. She told The Sun: “When the matter of your health has been shaken it shatters your world. I’m sure that being able to get back on email, to get back to meetings, to have that connection with the real world has been a source of great comfort for her.
“The wonderful thing about Catherine and why she always makes the front pages is because that smile lights up any room she’s in. It’s not forced, fake or artificial, it’s genuine and authentic because she takes great joy from the work that she does.”
One event Kate is set to miss is the glitzy tiara event the Diplomatic Corps Reception, which is set to take place at Buckingham Palace tonight. King Charles will host the annual white tie Diplomatic Corps reception at Buckingham Palace, which sees the royals host 500 diplomats, who all come dressed in all of their finery.
The King is set to be joined other members of the Firm including Queen Camilla and Prince William, however it is understood the Princess of Wales, who is often a regular attendee, will not be among them. Last week, Kate made a series of rare public appearances to mark Remembrance weekend by attending the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall and the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday. It was the first time this year she had made two appearances on two consecutive days following her cancer diagnosis and subsequent chemotherapy treatment.
However, her return to duties is gradual, and she is said to instead be focusing on organising her annual Christmas Carol Concert at Westminster Abbey. The event will be filmed and broadcast as part of a special programme on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.
Members of the royal family will gather with the princess as some 1,600 people fill the abbey in London to see musical performances by stars including Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean and Gregory Porter. Among the invited guests will be those who have supported others, either on a personal level with friends and family, or through their work or volunteering.
