17 January 2024 , 14:54
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The Princess of Wales has not been seen in public since she attended the Royal Family’s Christmas Day service, when she was seen making jokes with members of the public.
The popular 42-year-old is now recovering in hospital after abdominal surgery but on December 25 joined in the tradition with Prince William and their children, Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte. On the crisp day in Sandringham she was on fine form as she enjoyed a few laughs with the public who had turned out in support of them all.
To keep out the conditions she opted for a long blue Alexander McQueen coat and customised Gianvito Rossi ‘Glen 85’ boots with her late mother-in-law's double drop sapphire earrings, and was handed a bouquet of flowers. Christmas Day was the last time she was seen out in public - and fans will have to wait until at least Easter for her next royal engagement after her abdominal surgery.
Kensington Palace said in a statement: “Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to The London Clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery.
“The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery. Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter.
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“The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.
The statement in full on Kensington Palace's social media page (Twitter)
Kate ushers her sons Prince George and Prince Louis on Christmas Day (UK Press via Getty Images)“Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is significant new information to share. “The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact she has to postpone her upcoming engagements. She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible.”
Kate was admitted to The London Clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery which was successful. The operation is expected to keep the royal off her feet from duties until at least Easter time. The exact procedure the 42-year-old underwent is currently unknown.
At the Christmas Day event smiled with pride despite Prince Louis appearing to break royal protocol by holding his cousin Mia's hand. Elsewhere, photos showed Prince Andrew hanging awkwardly to one side while the other royals smiled and waved to fans.