AFTER SHE'S SPOTTED IN PUBLIC THE PRINCESS OF WALES HOW HER MOTHER CAROLE MIDDLETON HAS BEEN BY HER SIDE THROUGHOUT

AImost two months after undergoing major abdominal surgery, the Princess of Wales appears to be back on her feet and well on the road to recovery, with her mother at her side.

Carole Middleton has been a constant presence since Kate, 42, returned home from hospital in January and it seems the pair's close relationship has become even stronger in the Princess's hour of need.

Last week, Kate was seen for the first time since her operation as she and Carole went for a drive near her home on the Windsor estate. Wearing dark glasses and with her hair hanging loose, she was spotted in the passenger seat of a 4WD Audi in Windsor, with Carole at the wheel. It is thought they may have been returning home after dropping off Kate's three children at nearby Lambrook School.

'SHE WILL BE BACK'

The last time Kate had been seen in public was on Christmas Day, at church in Sandringham, and her appearance ended weeks of fevered speculation about her.

However, her uncle Gary Goldsmith has assured the public she is in good hands, saying: "She's amazing. She will be back; of course she will."

Businessman Gary, who is Carole's younger brother, talked about his niece on Celebrity Big Brother, telling a fellow contestant: "I spoke to her mum, my sister. She's getting the best care in the world. And all the family's done is put the wagons round and look after family first before anything else."

Kate is recuperating at her home at Adelaide Cottage, and sources tell HELLO! Carole has been a comforting presence while the Prince of Wales juggles royal duties with caring for his wife and their children.

MOTHER KNOWS BEST