To wrap up a busy two-day tour of the UK to thank frontline workers, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge ended the day at Windsor Castle with other members of the Royal Family.
Prince William and Catherine were welcomed by The Queen, Prince Charles and Camilla, The Earl and Countess of Wessex, and Princess Anne in the Quadrangle of the Upper Ward, in front of the Equerry’s entrance.
The Queen, Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall are joined by The Duke and Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Windsor Castle to thank local volunteers and key workers following the end of William and Catherine’s Royal Train tour of the UK.
The Royals – like many families – have been separated for much of the pandemic, and it is the first time they have been seen together in more than ‘households’ since the pandemic began. They were stood apart to maintain distancing.
The Salvation Army Band performed a selection of Christmas carols. The Queen briefly spoke to Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill, the Territorial leaders of The Salvation Army, from a safe distance; she thanked them for their work, as well as the carols they heard, remarking it might be the ‘only time’ that happens this festive season.
A marquee was also erected in outdoors, protecting workers from the cold, but also allowing them to meet members of the Royal Family. It also appears these specially invited guests were treated to drinks.
Guests included people working with organisations and charities in Berkshire who will be volunteering or working to help others over the Christmas period.
Her Majesty has spent both lockdowns at Windsor, and also plans to spend Christmas there with Prince Philip, foregoing their usual trip to Sandringham.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge told students in Cardiff earlier in the day that they hadn’t yet decided on their plans for Christmas.
“It is so difficult, we are still trying to make plans,’ William said. “It’s difficult to know what to do for the best.”
The Countess of Wessex at the event (@RoyalFamily)
Princess Anne hears from one keyworker (@RoyalFamily)
It is understood that the Prince also contracted coronavirus earlier in the year, shortly after Prince Charles.
