Over the weekend, I read an article on BBC News which offered a retrospective on William and Kate's years in Anglesey through the lens of locals in Wales. I was reminded how, in 2010, William, Flt Lt Wales, gave two preferences for his first posting as an RAF Search and Rescue pilot: Lossiemouth in Scotland and Valley on Anglesey, off the north west coast of Wales. Of course, it had to be the latter, for one day William and his future wife would become the Prince and Princess of Wales and it was critical the process of forging ties was taken in hand and cemented. Twelve years on from William and Kate's first days there -- renting a Farmhouse and enjoying walks on a private beach where undoubtedly many conversations about their future took place -- the oft discussed 'one day' was ushered in with the passing of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Today, the Prince and Princess of Wales made their first official visit to the country.
In a decidedly fitting fashion, the day's first engagement took them back to Anglesey.
I remember months after the royal wedding Kate said: "I love our life in Anglesey. It's just nice to be outdoors and away from the city. As much as I love London, it's nice to get away." When the couple left in 2013, William said they would return "again and again". The Prince described it as an "immensely special" place. As a 'farewell', the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (we simply have to give the Cambridge title an outing now and again :)) joined locals for the Ring O' Fire Coastal Ultra Marathon. It was just five weeks after Prince George was born and Kate's first engagement since their son arrived. Kate, wearing a Ralph Lauren blazer and Topshop jeans, told locals George was at home with his grandma Carole. The day's events feel very familiar to me, and many of you I expect, happening just over nine years ago...
Kensington Palace said: "The Prince and Princess have a deep affection for Wales, having made their first family home in Anglesey, and have thoroughly enjoyed previous visits and the warmth and kindness shown by the Welsh people. Their Royal Highnesses are looking forward to spending more time in Wales over the coming months and years, taking the time to strengthen their relationship with communities in all parts of Wales."
William and Kate's first port of call was a visit to RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) Holyhead Lifeboat Station where they met volunteers, crew and those who have been supported by the unit.
They were welcomed by four-year-old Theo.
Let's just say Theo was enchanted to meet a real life Prince and Princess.
"While visiting the RNLI Holyhead Lifeboat Station to meet crew members, volunteers and others helped by their local unit, the princess especially connected with a 4-year-old boy named Theo Crompton. Theo appeared thrilled to greet the royal one-on-one, joyfully presenting her with a small bouquet. Equally charmed, the mom of three accepted the pink roses and crouched down for a closer chat, as William, 40, joined in".
Roya Nikkhah tweeted: "Leo who waited 4 hours to see the couple with his flowers. William noted Leo had on a 'smarter tie' than his private secretary, Jean-Christophe Gray, who replied: 'Hire him now, Sir.'"
Theo's mother Rebecca Crompton told Hello!: "We were actually on the way to school when I changed my mind and decided to bring him down here for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
Holyhead is one of the three oldest lifeboat stations on the Welsh coast, with a decorated history including seventy awards for gallantry.
William and Kate with crew and volunteers.
Of course, Her late Majesty was proud Patron of the RNLI for seven decades. Following her passing, the organisation shared a treasured photo with the message: "Her Majesty’s support for our lifesavers and our cause will never be forgotten." The visit comes the day after the official mourning period for Her late Majesty ended.
More from the RNLI official website:
'On ascending to the throne in 1952, the young Queen Elizabeth II took on a lot of responsibilities. And one of those was being the Patron of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. It’s a role that’s been held by every reigning British monarch since King George IV in the 1820s. And it’s an important role, giving credibility and support to our lifesaving charity.
Queen Elizabeth II was by our side throughout Her Majesty's reign, granting awards for services to lifesaving, and sending heartfelt sympathy when – sadly – we’ve lost crew members to the sea. Her Majesty and The Royal Family have named lifeboats, opened stations, and given cheer, inspiration and a well-deserved sense of pride to generations of lifeboat crews.
One memorable visit from early in Queen Elizabeth II’s reign came on 29 June 1958, when Her Majesty and the late HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh visited Holy Island, Northumberland. RNLI lifeboat crews from Berwick and North Sunderland launched to proudly escort the royal barge. But you never know what the North Sea has in store, and duty called. The coxswain of the North Sunderland lifeboat Grace Darling spotted a broken-down motorboat with 14 people onboard and in need of help. The lifeboat crew changed course and took the motorboat, Lady Francis, under tow to the nearest safe harbour. They then returned to complete the royal escort.
On arrival at Holy Island lifeboat slipway, Queen Elizabeth II and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh were welcomed ashore and into the station. Lifeboat and fundraising volunteers were presented to Her Majesty and The Duke, on a day that lives on in many happy memories.'
Following the Queen's passing, RNLI Chief Executive Mark Dowie said: "On behalf of everyone involved with the RNLI, we send our heartfelt condolences to The Royal Family on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty has dedicated 70 years as patron of the RNLI, engaging with and recognising the efforts of thousands of our people. We place on record our sincere thanks for Her Majesty’s unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea. Our thoughts are with The Royal Family and Her Majesty’s loyal subjects across the United Kingdom and The Commonwealth.
"A lot has happened in the past 70 years. Under Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s patronage, RNLI lifeboats launched 329,854 times, and saved 65,979 lives. We introduced a lifeguard service. We brought jet-propelled lifeboats to the Thames, and helped other lifesaving organisations around the world with their programmes. None of this would have been possible without generous and caring supporters. People like you. And like Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II."
William and Kate toured the station.
The engagement itself was very much a throwback to William and Kate's first official appearance after their engagement in 2010 -- naming a RNLI lifeboat in Anglesey.
Afterwards, the Prince and Princess walked to the Holyhead Marine and Café Bar to meet representatives of local businesses, including the Coastguard and Sea Cadets.
'Reminiscing about life in Anglesey, William said: "It's good to be back, it really is. It feels like going back in time, seeing where we all started to be a family unit."
The royal visit comes as behind-the-scenes discussions and plans are underway to solidify the couple's relationship with the people of Wales. A senior source told Wales Online William and Kate are "very clear the title is a long term thing" and want to "deepen trust" and visit "regularly" with a trip to Cardiff slated before Christmas.
More from Wales Online on the tentative discussion regarding William's investiture. In fact, there is speculation today we may not see any sort of ceremony.
'Wales Online understands the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, want to "quell some concerns" around the investiture. An event akin to King Charles' is off the table and there may not even be a formal investiture ceremony, it is thought.
Earlier this month King Charles III used his first public address as monarch to appoint William the new Prince of Wales. More than 35,000 people signed a petition against the title being passed on.
Shortly after the public address Wales' first Presiding Officer, Dafydd Elis-Thomas spoke to ITV about a conversation he once had with the now-king. "In discussions with him when he was still Prince of Wales, when I had cultural responsibilities in the Welsh Government, one of the issues I did raise with him was that I hoped there would never again be an investiture in Caernarfon Castle," he said. “[Charles] laughed and said: ‘Do you think I want to put William through what I went through?'”
First Minister Mark Drakeford has said there should be "no rush" to plan an investiture ceremony. He added that there is time to come to a "conclusion on what might be suitable for the best way forward".
From Anglesey, the Prince and Princess of Wales travelled to Swansea.
The couple visited the recently re-developed St Thomas Church which supports people in the local area.
Over the past two years, the church has undergone a transformation and is now an essential community hub supporting people with an array of needs. Their foodbank supports over 200 people every week, facilities for homeless people have become a much depended on and necessary service, and a surplus food distribution network collects food from supermarkets and grocers just before the close of business and distributes items to those who need them most.
A typical sign at the church door? 'Welcome to breakfast and board games'.
Wales Online reports the Princess told a group gathered at the church: "With the cost of living crisis, there are a lot of desperate people out there. The food bank is a lifeline to so many people...amazing work going on there. Keep up the hard work." One woman present during the conversation said it was a chat she "won't forget".
Kate promised a choir of children she would tell the King what "beautiful voices" they have. They were due to perform for Charles in February.
The Princess tells children “we’ll have to tell him (The King) what beautiful voices you’ve got,” after hearing they had planned to sing for him in February: pic.twitter.com/kOvghuciJX
— Emily Nash (@emynash) September 27, 2022
Of particular interest to Kate will have been the church's Swansea Baby Basics facility which distributes essential items for vulnerable mothers across the city.
Kensington Palace said: "The Princess of Wales has previously worked with Baby Banks and in the summer of 2020 brought together nineteen British brands and retailers to donate over 10,000 new items to more than 40 baby banks nationwide. She has visited a number of baby banks across the UK, where she has spent time speaking with families about their experiences of using their local baby bank services as well as helping unload donations." I've long believed Kate's previous involvement with supporting baby banks could serve as the genesis for a career-long project aimed at supporting parents and babies in areas across the UK, in a similar vein to the very real and immediate need the Queen Consort's Wash Bag project identified by providing toiletries and essentials for women who have been raped or sexually abused.
A darling two-year-old named Charlotte helped Kate pack supplies.
Kate gets a helping hand from two-year-old Charlotte, packing a @BabyBasicsUK bag to support local families pic.twitter.com/X8JiJ3v1fY
— Roya Nikkhah (@RoyaNikkhah) September 27, 2022
My favourite photo of the day? As William and Kate left the Princess gave adorable Charlotte a big hug.
The expression on little Charlotte's face says it all :)
Then it was time for a walkabout with a number of excited locals.
Scenes in Swansea.
A great shot.
Time for a selfie.
One lady in the crowd grabs her shot of Kate.
More from Wales Online:
'Molly Dowrick, out reporter at the scene of the Royal visit to Swansea, said she was struck by the fact the Prince and Princess really took their time to meet as many people as they could - and even left a little later than planned.
"They took their time to meet as many people as they could," she said. "Kate was particularly interested to find out about the baby bank. There were a couple of hundred people there of all ages."
A very memorable first official visit to Wales for the Wales couple!
In a fitting show of sartorial diplomacy, Kate chose an elegant 'Welsh red' LK Bennett coat for the day (with thanks to Kate Middleton Style).
The Spencer Red Recycled Wool Blend Snaffle-Detail Coat is described as: "A statement coat with heritage-inspired snaffle detail, the Spencer coat sits in our LKB Conscious collection. Crafted from a luxurious red recycled wool blend fabric by Manteco - the leading textile company for sustainability and high-end fabrics - it's a single-breasted style with gold dome buttons, an oversized collar, a tailored silhouette and front patch pockets finished with gold snaffle detail." The coat is currently available in sizes 2-14 (US) and 6-16 (UK) on the brand's website.
As noted above, the fabric is by Manteco -- the leading textile company for sustainability and high-end fabrics since 1943. This fabric is designed through constant research and innovation, produced with the best quality raw materials and exclusive processing techniques, all of this without compromising on sustainability.
It appears the Princess wore her Boden Cashmere Crew neck jumper in black (with thanks to Middleton Maven).
Kate wore her Roland Mouret Axon trousers.
The Princess carried her Grace Han Love Letter Small Top Handle Bag. The £1,595 piece is described as "a perfect companion with its elegance and classic shape. Its distinctive envelope closure is an ode to Love Letters of the past, present and future". The London-based brand was launched just before the pandemic.
Kate accessorised with her Alia hoops by Welsh brand Spells of Love.
I'm still in consultation and seeking advice on the best methods regarding site changes. I will keep you all up to date before anything is implemented. Thank you again for your patience.
The Prince & Princess of Wales are such an asset to country & crown; genuine, humble, and kind.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely agree :)
DeleteWonderful to see them in Wales. She looks beautiful and serene, he looks handsome and quite regal. God bless them.
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ReplyDeleteLove this!! So devoted to crown and country. I admire them so much and the smiles and warmth they bring when meeting people. So caring and compassionate. ❤️đź–¤
ReplyDelete-FloridaGirl
Stay safe. Thinking of Floridian's at this time.
DeleteThank you!! We are as prepared as can be.
Delete-FloridaGirl
I am sure its no accident she is wearing the Spencer coat. A nice subtle homage to the last Princess of Wales, Diana Spencer. -Ariagurl.
ReplyDeleteGood Call Anon 17:29!!! I missed that! xoxo
DeleteBecca
USA
Camilla of course was Princess of Wales. It was decided she should not use that title during her rehabilitation from tabloid scandal to future Queen Consort as she is today. She was Princess of Wales for 17 years, since 2005.
DeleteWhat a beautiful little schoolboy. There have been some lovely photos of him with the Prince and Princess of Wales.
ReplyDeleteI like the coat, as I do many of Kate's, but I wish L.K.B. had remained a British brand. It is my understanding it was sold a few years ago after trying to keep it with the founder. Anyway, the red is a beautiful shade and it is wonderful Wales was a first visit after the end of the official mourning period.
A nice enough coat, though nothing notable. The pocket treatment is interesting, though I wouldn't say the item is a real stand-out as the Princess's coat wardrobe goes. However, it's very suitable for a relatively casual engagement and for wearing over black clothing. I see William is still wearing a mourning tie, though official mourning has, I think, come to an end.
ReplyDeleteI've become a bit weary of the frequent tabloid claims that practically everything the Princess wears is some "tribute to Diana". In this case, the name of the coat only fueled such a claim, but I strongly suspect that she would have bought the coat anyway, regardless of its name. She likes red, wears the color well, and by now has purchased several red coats. And red is one of the Welsh colors. I think that's where it should be left.
Interesting that she's returned to LK Bennett, her old favorite. I didn't know the label had been sold out of British hands, as another poster mentioned. We used to have an LKB store here in Chicago, on one of our most prestigious shopping streets, but it closed. I have to say that I wasn't wildly impressed by the quality of the goods, and that was years ago, before the brand would have been sold. I haven't visited the stores in the UK.
I so agree Vittoria regarding all the comparisons to Diana. I agree that she would have bought this coat regardless of the name and the red was probably more of a nod to Wales. The tabloids just love to always look for a nod or comparison to Diana. Sometimes there is no deeper meaning :)
DeleteI also agree that the "nod to Diana" usually means Kate or Meghan wore a green dress and Diana once wore a green dress. With the incredible amount of clothes previously or currently worn, there's little Kate can wear that does not have some similarity, but I imagine she dresses to be Kate.
DeleteVitt, it has to be a nod to the late Princess Diana. Its the Spencer coat. Also Diana did like wearing red. Diana's wardrobe was huge compared to Catherine's. I'm sure she wore every colour and shade of colour over the years. The Princess of Wales is a woman with her own taste and style I could not imagine her thinking how am I going to dress up as my late Mother in law today. Unless she has a Diana wardrobe. I like to think she pays tribute at times by wearing certain pieces of jewellery at certain times. Now I'm thinking of the large amount of jewellery that hasn't been used belonging to Diana. I'm wondering what happened to her handbag collection. Fashion wise that would be a nice tribute. Diana did say that she wouldn't go quietly. People will still be taking about her when her Grandson is on the throne. S. ☺
DeleteI agree with you. Let’s just say it’s a well made coat with no ties to the ancient family to which her husband belongs except a coincidence of name and let poor Diana rest in peace. Catherine wore red as tribute to the Welsh people.
DeleteI agree, a lovely event. Thanks for the throwback photo of Kate at her first visit to Anglesey, she is so much more relaxed now. I like the color of the coat but the proportions seem off, the length is too short for those wide pants. -celticgirl
ReplyDeleteWhat a long way Kate has come from shy fiance to confident mother of three. And nothing illustrates that better than how her style developed. Looking back at those pictures of her first engagement you can see how much though went into not breaking any (non-existant) rules, not offending anybody, down to the little facinator in her hair. Today, wearing pants and a red coat every inch a valued working member of the firm.
ReplyDeleteThe walkabout was a bit chaotic. I got anxious when people surrounded William, not because of safety since it was obvious they were delighted to see him but because crowd management can result in criticism and difficult images if security intervened.
ReplyDeleteHello. In one article it was noted that Catherine was given a rose brooch. I was hoping for a picture, if one is available.
ReplyDeleteHow cute is that sweet little girl in that cute outfit n the boy is adorable.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite photos are the ones with little Theo and also with Charlotte. They are adorable.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I thought selfies with the Royal family were not allowed, are they relaxing that rule a bit?
I wondered about the selfies, too. I haven’t seen royals posing for them before. But nonetheless, a wonderful visit!
DeleteThere really aren’t royal rules. Most of them are hyped up tabloid assertions to make the institution seem elevated and have some impression of mystique. Many of them have posed for selfies including William and Kate. And honestly would would even happen if it was a “rule” and they broke it? Off to royal jail? Of course it’s not a thing.
DeleteI really love their eager-ness to spend time with the people of Wales now that their titles have changed! It's so nice they're Prince and Princess of somewhere that is so close to their hearts and you can tell they genuinely love visiting. Kate's outfit was a perfect choice coming out of the mourning time, in my opinion. The red coat was a nice nod to Wales as you mention and I especially love that bag. Really looking forward to seeing them more! Thank you for a great post, as always, Charlotte!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great engagement! The Waleses really use the earliest opportunity to show they are serious about their new titles. I like that they want to deepen trust and get to know the Welsh communities better. And what treasured memories they must have of their first home!
ReplyDeleteKate looks elegant and lovely.
Thank you for the post, Charlotte!
Lovely to see this couple in Wales today! I bought these earrings after Kate first wore them a couple of years ago and they really are beautiful! A unique shape and very well made. They are now my favourite, go-to pair.
ReplyDeleteCould you do an article with all the outfits worn by the Princess of Wales during all the days of Queen Elizabeth II's funeral?
ReplyDeleteKate looks very lovely -- love everything she is wearing. The trim on the coat is very attractive, and I also like those earrings. Looks like a super feel-good back to home visit. I imagine it was easy and soothing. I hope it's OK to say that we all must remember that William has no choice in his current and future roles. Many of us take for granted that we can switch careers or employers but William can't. There are tremendous opportunities but he cannot be like his cousins. Being in the US, having a monarch past Queen Elizabeth is not important to me but it is to a majority, I think, of UK citizens. I think UK citizens do very much appreciate what he and Kate are doing as ambassadors for their country.
ReplyDeleteThis was the perfect engagement for them with their new titles. They are so good with the little ones. It was wonderful to seen both of their interests in one visit. I’m fascinated with lifesaving stations and lighthouse's, they have very special duties. On the fashion side, I love her coat.
ReplyDeleteThey did really well today. It can't be easy to visit, knowing that some of the Welsh don't want them to have the title. They handled it perfectly. I don't think they should worry about an investiture. 'Bread and butter' engagements meeting ordinary people is where it's at.
ReplyDeleteI still expect long overdue portraits of W&K to mark their new titles.
DeleteSome of the Welch signed a petition. Do we know that all those people are actually living in Wales. It's 35,000 now out of a population of 3.25 million. What I have learnt over the last few years is, some people like to protest just to protest and are very vocal and the minority. S. ☺
DeleteAnon 21:24 I agree that this is the best type of engagement ... plus attending schools, health care facilities, charities, and the such.
DeleteI agree, Anon 23:36
DeleteThese children handing Kate flowers are the cutest. The little girl in the costume is like a doll and the little boy with the tie too. Kate looks great, very nice combination.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely visit; both of them are just so charming and genuine. Has anyone noticed how much William fools with his tie? He's always collecting it and flattening it; he needs a tie clip! Clearly it's habit, but he does it constantly.
ReplyDeleteWhat a nice engagement! William and Catherine must have great memories of their time in Wales, and I think they will, in their own style and way, make a great Prince and Princess of Wales. One of my favorite early photos was of them walking along a beach with Catherine's arm linked in Williams, nice beginning and start of their life together. Catherine looks beautiful, any ID on the shoes? Maybe they just look new because they aren't suede, but they have a block heel so think they might be a leather version.
ReplyDeleteCatherine's shoes are the 100Point block heel shoes, £245, from Russell & Bromley. Love them!
ReplyDeleteNice to see the Prince and Princess out and about. I like to see them relating so well with the general public. It must be difficult to know how to walk the line between relatable and keeping some distance and mystery. If they become too “ordinary” people will lose interest in them as well.
ReplyDeleteAnd they obviously seem to be embracing the new role and added responsibilities. It would appear that the Monarchy is not dissolving yet. Which is nice for those of us who like to follow it.
I want to commend you, Admin Charlotte, for your thorough and respectful coverage of HM The Queen's death and the related events involving the whole Royal Family. I have never commented before, but I have been a long-time, multi-year reader. I cannot fathom the amount of time and care you took/are taking to research and write about all the minute details which make your coverage something special. I know I echo the words of many others, but I want to add mine to theirs: "Thank you!" The respectfulness and just overall welcome environment you have created is well-appreciated in this online world.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the post! What a full circle visit, really amazing when you think of how far they’ve come. A very nice outfit and I just love watching the interactions with the little ones and the crowd. Sue
ReplyDeleteshe really is great with kids and looks lovely doing it
ReplyDeleteWell done to the new Prince and Princess of Wales! They are off and running with their new titles. I have been reading this blog since before George was born. It is hard to believe that was 9 years ago already! I think Kate looked splendid today and was solidifying her unofficial title as the Children's Princess!
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looked lovely, the red coat is stylish and chic.
ReplyDeleteA great "first" engagement for our new Prince and Princess of Wales! It's good to see them back in Wales. Time really flies! Such cute photos with those little kids. I am pleased she wore red as a tribute to Wales but even more that she chose a sustainable fabric -from an Italian company-. What about P.William outfit? Is it from sustainable-recycled material? I hope she,he -and we all- will progressively wear sustainable fabric and think wisely about our fashion choices.
ReplyDeleteA very good 'new' start. Well done!
A lovely event. They are so natural and down to earth. It is very significant their first engagement after the mourning period was in Wales. They said they would visit and they did at the first opportunity. A promise kept...
ReplyDeleteYes Natacha!!!
DeleteCatherine always is and looks wonderful. However, I've always wondered about the fabrics and fit and shoes for P. William. His jackets are always 3 inches too short; they don't seem designed to be buttoned, they and the trousers look to be basic cotton fabric, and always brown suede shoes, a much more casual look than Catherine. And the ties, constantly being touched and straightened. Honestly, I think it's time as P. of Wales for him to up his clothing choices to a bit more dressy and tailored, to match Catherine who has always dressed "up". He's always been on a more casual dress side than she has. K. Charles has always been a smart dresser with his double-breasted suits and such; in my opinion, it's time for William to step it up a bit--get some new shoes and clothes that fit better and don't need fooling with all the time. He's first in line to be king now; I think it's time to look more the part.
ReplyDeleteAgree. I was hoping he inherited Charles’ tailor together with the title lol
DeleteI don't know, my husband is pretty fashionable...much more than I, lol. I think the trend is towards shorter jackets and more casual fit. He says double-breasted style is definitely not "in" right now.
DeleteI agree, Lori P. King Charles dresses older fashioned than Prince William. I frequently think his suits are from when he weighed more or something because they seem baggy often, even rumpled.
DeleteTerrific outing! Thanks for the great photos.
ReplyDeleteMarvelous post, Charlotte. Thank you for including the video tribute to the Queen by the RNLI. It was very informative and touching.
ReplyDeletethe prince and princess wale are fantastic in their outing i remember their newlywed home in Anglesey the princess wales is shining even more with children e before George was born. It is hard to believe that was 9 years ago im reading these wonderful blog keeps us updated charlotte
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