'MOVING WITH THE TIMES'

THE DUKE AND DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE ARE MODERNISING THE MONARCHY SAYS ROYAL EXPERT JENNIE BOND

- SAMUEL MCMANUS-MAXWELL

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge enjoyed a two-day trip to Scotland last week where they showed just how far they have come in shaking up the future of the monarchy.

Prince William, 39, and Kate, 40, who also hold the titles the Earl and Countess of Strathearn in Scotland, made the visit during Mental Health Awareness Week, where they met several project leaders working to improve services for the vulnerable.

The couple arrived in Glasgow on Wednesday to visit the Wheatley Group, who work with those at risk of homelessness, and it was here Prince William was pictured embracing 66-year-old William Burns. The duke also spent time playing with children, while earlier his wife Kate cuddled a baby during a visit to a primary school.

The couple's down-to-earth approach to royal engagements is a sign they want to do things differently, says royal expert Jennie Bond.

"William and Catherine are the face of the modern monarchy," she says.

"I think they have always intended to move with the times, but perhaps the difficulties and criticisms of their recent tour to the Caribbean have accelerated their plans to show their brand of royalty is different and more relatable.

"I think William's hug with the crying man was very genuine. These walkabouts and meetings can be so stilted and superficial because you're meeting someone for five seconds. But to give a real big cuddle like that to someone who's overcome is charming.