Kate lights the way

THE Princess of Wales said her children were "really excited" to join in at her annual Westminster Abbey carol concert.

- RUSSELL MYERS, JOSHUA WHORMS

Kate was joined last night by husband Prince William and their children Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, seven, for her fifth Together At Christmas service.

It was the first time the Waleses have been seen together in public since Trooping the Colour, the King's birthday parade, in June.

Outside the Abbey's great west door, the family stopped at a Connection Tree decorated with paper chains bearing the names of guests.

The children added their names to the tree, a symbol of togetherness and the importance of moments of connection. The service recognised those who have dedicated or volunteered their time to others, led initiatives that bring people in their community together, or offered a helping hand to those around them.

Wearing a festive dark green coat dress and knee high black boots, host Kate met the Dean of Westminster before heading inside to meet performers and volunteers.