FAMILY AFFAIR: 'THIS IS KATE'S NIGHT, WILLIAM WAS BURSTING WITH PRIDE'

The Princess of Wales takes centre stage as the royal family come together for a festive evening of thanksgiving at her third annual carol concert

- REBECCA RUSSELL

It as a display of Christmas unity for the royal family last Friday as their festive season began at the Princess of Wales' third annual carol concert at Westminster Abbey.

Previous years showcased Catherine's own musical talents and paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II through the image of beloved storybook character Paddington Bear. This year, Royal Carols: Together At Christmas came closer to home for the Princess, drawing on the important work she is doing in the field of early childhood.

Over the past decade, Kate, 41, has become a leading voice in the sector and earlier this year launched her biggest project yet - Shaping Us - which works to raise awareness of how our formative years affect the adults we become.

Making a spectacular solo arrival to say a personal thank you to the staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to put the concert together, Kate wore winter white and looked happy and relaxed as she entered the abbey with its Dean, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle. She was then pictured chatting to actor Jim Broadbent, Dame Sheila Hancock and representatives from the Scouts, of which Kate is patron, before she was greeted by Prince William, 41, for a family entrance. Prince George, 10, and Princess Charlotte, eight, excitedly joined their parents, with Prince Louis, five, making his dapper debut at the event in a smart navy blue pea coat.

In a special touch this year, the three young royals posted their own personalised Christmas messages to children who might be struggling in a specially designed snow-covered postbox before entering the abbey with their parents.