Kate is smiles better! Mother's Day family photo shows she's on road to a full recovery

BEAMING with delight, the Princess of Wales is pictured being hugged by her happy, laughing children as she thanks the public for their "kind wishes and continued support over the last two months".

- Mark Reynolds

Kate, 42, looks radiant and well in the first official photograph to be released since she underwent abdominal surgery in January.

The joyful image, which was taken by Prince William early last week, was shared on the royal couple's social media accounts for Mother's Day yesterday.

In an accompanying message, the Princess said: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months.

Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day. C" Dressed informally in £250 Chloe Combat boots, which she has worn several times before, along with blue jeans, a dark sweater and bottle-green jacket, the royal was seen sitting down in the photo.

She has her arms around Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five, with 10-year-old Prince George wrapping his arms reassuringly around his mother.