The Princess of Wales has arrived at Westminster Abbey ahead of the start of her annual Christmas carol service.
Kate, 42, who was not initially accompanied by her family but is expected to reunite with them later, has hosted the Together at Christmas carol service at the abbey for the past four years.
This year’s service features a specially commissioned festive illustration by artist Charlie Mackesy and highlights themes of love, kindness, and empathy.
In a message sent ahead of the service, Kate said Christmas is a moment of “celebration and joy” as well as an “opportunity to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all”.
She said: “Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year.”
It comes after a challenging year for the Princess, who has undergone cancer treatment and largely stepped back from public engagements.
Around 1,600 guests, including Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy and Lindsey Burrow, will attend the event, which aims to offer a moment of reflection on the importance of loved ones during the festive season.
The Order of Service will showcase a bespoke illustration by Mackesy, celebrated for his bestselling book The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse. The artwork features a snowy scene of people walking arm in arm towards Westminster Abbey, accompanied by the words: “How did I help? You were by my side, which was everything.”
Mackesy’s work, known for its celebration of kindness and friendship, reflects the service’s central message of support and togetherness.
He said: “Love, empathy, and kindness are important messages for us all.
“As the theme of The Princess of Wales’s Carol Service this year, it was very special to have been asked to create the illustration for the Order of Service. I hope it reminds us of the beauty of being there for each other at Christmas.”
Each guest at the service will receive a special letter from the Princess of Wales, thanking them for their efforts to bring comfort and hope to those in need. In her message, she writes: “Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times.”
This marks the fourth year that the Princess has hosted her Together At Christmas carol service. The event will be broadcast as part of Royal Carols: Together At Christmas on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm on Christmas Eve.
Readings reflecting the theme of love and empathy will be delivered by Prince William and a line-up of stars, including actor Richard E. Grant, Downton Abbey’s Michelle Dockery, Oscar nominee Sophie Okonedo, and Olympic swimming champion Adam Peaty.
The Middleton family, who have reportedly been a great source of support to the Princess during her illness, are also expected to attend.
