Kate Middletonis bringing cheer to her new royal role.
Kate, 40,visited Waleswith her husbandPrince Williamon Tuesday — marking their first trip to the country since becoming thePrince and Princess of Walesthe day afterQueen Elizabeth’s death.
PAUL ELLIS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
The lifeboat station — which is just miles from where the couple once lived as newlyweds in Anglesey — has received 70 awards for gallantry as crews battle the often-stormy seas to help the stricken. It echoed Kate’s first official royal duty with William whenshe helped launch a new lifeboaton the island two months before they wed in 2011.
Kate Middleton and Prince William.PAUL ELLIS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
After the lifeboat station visit, the couple took a short walk to the Holyhead Marine and Café Bar to meet people from small businesses and organizations like the Coastguard and Sea Cadets.
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Shortly before the couple arrived at St. Thomas’s Church, the church bells rang to the tune of “God Save the King” and several of the 300 well-wishers crammed along the narrow street sang along.
Kate Middleton and Prince William.Samir Hussein/WireImage
“It’s wonderful that Charles bestowed the title on them,” local Sarah East, 65, tells PEOPLE. “He was always known as William of Wales as a boy. They’re so well-suited to it as they’ve lived in Anglesey and know all about Wales.”
Pauline Bushrod, 80, who was also in the crowd, says: “It’s brilliant they’re here. Our future King and Queen. It could not be better that it’s them.”
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Kate Middleton and Prince William.Danny Lawson/PA Images via Getty Images
It was a particularly poignant visit. Those close to the couple also say Wales has a special place in their hearts — rooted in their first home where they lived whenPrince Georgewas born, and reflected in their decision to take George andPrincess Charlotteto Cardiff during the weekend celebrating the late Queen’sPlatinum Jubilee.
As Tuesday’s visits took place, any plans for a large-scale investiture like William’s father Charles had in July 1969 were far from their minds. The Prince and Princess of Wales are more interested in continuing to deepen their bonds with the Welsh people and representing, and celebrating the modern nation.
William and Kate also plan to return to Wales before the end of the year
source: people.com
