The Princess of Wales today arrived at Westminster Abbey to lead her family at her Christmas carol concert after the most difficult year of her life.

This time last year Kate, 42, was focusing on her work and children, and looking forward to the festive season with little inclination of what was to come.

Weeks later she underwent major abdominal surgery in hospital, after which doctors broke the news that they had found evidence of cancer and advised her to undergo a gruelling course of preventative chemotherapy. 

Kate and her husband Prince William found their lives turned upside down.

Now, having completed her treatment, the royal is beginning to return to public duties and will hold her fourth ‘Together At Christmas’ carol service at historic Westminster Abbey, which will be televised by ITV on Christmas Eve.

The princess, who has been ‘hands on’ over every aspect of the service and held regular planning meetings at Windsor, arrived on her own at 4pm to view the abbey and oversee last minute arrangements.

Kate put on an elegant display in an Alexander McQueen red coat, featuring a statement black bow, which she teamed with her black Ralph Lauren boots for the occasion.

She was joined just before the start of the event by her three children – Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six – as well as her husband, the Prince of Wales, who will read the first Lesson.

A beaming Princess of Wales stands with Olivia Dean and Paloma Faith at Westminster Abbey on the day of the Together At Christmas carol service

The Prince of Wales, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service

The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte, arrive for the Together At Christmas carol service

Princess Charlotte and Prince George with their candles as they attend the carol concert with their parents

Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service

Prince George sat next to Prince William during the festive service, with both wearing matching red ties

The Princess of Wales sat net to Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte, who matched their mother’s red ensemble, during the carol concert

Both Prince George and Prince Louis were wearing festive red ties to match their mother’s outfit, while Princess Charlotte had on a red coat. 

The entire Middleton family clan, who have been Kate’s dedicated support network throughout, was also present, as were other members of the Royal Family, including Zara Tindall, Princess Beatrice and the Duchess of Edinburgh. 

Pregnant Beatrice was joined by her husband Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and her stepson Christopher Woolf Mapelli Mozzi. 

Other royal guests included the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, Lord Frederick Windsor and Lady Gabriella Windsor and Lady Sarah Chatto, Princess Margaret’s daughter.

The King and Queen, however, are not amongst the guests.

Her father-in-law has, however, donated Christmas trees from Windsor Great Park to decorate the building, which will later be donated to the local community.

Looking typically stylish for the outing, Kate completed her festive ensemble with a red check skirt, her Mulberry Amberley Baroque Pearl Earrings and a £110 Gold Plated bangle by British brand Halcyon Days.

The bangle is thought to have been a birthday present from Prince William in 2020, and features a subtle nod to Princess Diana as it’s called ‘the Salamander Torque Forget-Me-Not & Gold Bangle ‘ – named after the late royal’s favourite flower.

The Prince and Princess of Wales with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis look at messages on the Kindness Tree ahead of the Together At Christmas carol service

Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales with their candles during the service

The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children all sat on the first row for the carol concert

The Princess of Wales was joined at the family occasion by her husband William and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis

Prince William, Princess Charlotte, Prince George and Prince Louis arrive at Westminster Abbey

Prince William joined his three children at the Westminster Abbey this evening for the carol concert

Prince George and Princess Charlotte arrive at Westminster Abbey for their mother’s carol concert

Zara Tindall, Princess Beatrice, Wolfie, and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi attend the Together At Christmas carol service

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, looked radiant in a purple patterned dress, teamed with a festive white jacket

Carole Middleton and Lady Gabriella Windsor arrive for the festive occasion in London today

Pippa Middleton (pictured left) and Zara Tindall (pictured right) both put on an equally stunning display for the occasion

James Middleton and his wife Alizee Thevenet matched in navy and burgundy outfits today

Sir Chris Hoy was supported by his wife Sarra as they attended the event after Sir Chris’ cancer diagnosis 

It wasn’t only royal guests attending the festive occasion, celebrities such as Hannah Waddingham (pictured left) and Paloma Faith (pictured right) also joined the guest list

The royal mother-of-three greets children who are performing at Westminster Abbey for her carol concert

The Princess of Wales was all smiles as she attended her Christmas-themed event this afternoon

The Princess chats with singers Olivia Dean and Paloma Faith as she attends her festive event

Kate was full of laughter as she chatted to some of her guests at the carol concert, including Paloma Faith

Princess Beatrice of York arrives for the ‘Together At Christmas’ Carol Service at Westminster Abbey

Showcasing her stylish prowess, Kate kept her brunette locks in soft waves and added to her features with a smattering of glamorous makeup. 

The 1,600-strong congregation largely consists of members of the public recommended by Lord Lieutenants across the country for their community and charity work as a ‘thank you’ from the princess.

Also among them are members of the Southport community affected by this summer’s tragic stabbing, including children who survived the attack and the families of the three little girls who died.

Travelling from Yorkshire is the family of inspirational Liz Hatton, who was invited to Windsor by the prince and princess in October to help complete a photography ‘bucket list’.

She sadly died last week of a rare form of cancer at the age of just 17, with William and Kate paying a moving public tribute to her strength and dignity.

RAF veteran Bernard Morgan, aged 100, from Crewe, is also present from the Royal British Legion. He landed in Normandy on D-Day in 1944.

Bernard, who still speaks to schools and colleges about his experiences during World War Two, said: ‘It is truly special to be part of The Princess of Wales’s Together at Christmas Carol Service at Westminster Abbey. 

‘I am very grateful to be invited, and I am honoured to light a candle on behalf of all the amazing volunteers at the Royal British Legion who give up their time to support veterans like me.

The stunning princess stands with Gregory Porter, Olivia Dean and Paloma Faith at Westminster Abbey

The Princess appeared deep in conversation as she talked to singer Gregory Porter (pictured centre left)

Kate shakes hands with actor Richard E. Grant as they chat at the Christmas carol concert today

This year, alongside their Order of Service, each guest will receive a special letter from The Princess of Wales (pictured left at the outing today), thanking them for all they have done to provide comfort and hope to those who need it the most

A radiant Kate couldn’t help but smile as she chatted to guests at the festive occasion this afternoon

Kate looked elegant in her Alexander McQueen red coat as she stepped out for the occasion

The Princess couldn’t contain her laughter as she chatted to actor Richard E. Grant (pictured left)

The Princess of Wales appeared radiant in a festive red coat, featuring a statement bow detail as she attended the Together At Christmas Carol Service at Westminster Abbey

Kate put on an elegant display in her stylish coat, which she teamed with matching heeled boots

The Princess appeared to wear her glamorous black Ralph Lauren boots for the occasion

‘I am always keen for the younger generation to know exactly what went on during the War and to appreciate the sacrifice that our lads made so that we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. 

‘Being able to continue to tell my story at 100 is wonderful and I am grateful to the Princess of Wales and the Royal British Legion for giving me the opportunity to do that.’

Sources have told the Mail that the service’s theme of empathy and the importance of the support of others at the most difficult times in our lives has, understandably, been inspired by the princess’ own experiences this year.

But she has also been keen to highlight others who are also going through similarly hard experiences.

Supported by her Royal Foundation, Kate has been determined to ‘celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled and comforted and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive’.

Appropriately the front cover of the Order of Service features a stunning illustration by artist and author, Charlie Macksey, creator of The Boy, The Fox and The Mole of a group of people walking towards the abbey, arms entwined, in a blanket of snow. 

It reads: ‘How did I help? You were by my side, which was everything.’ 

Although the idea was Macksey’s, there it little doubt that it is also a message from the princess to her nearest and dearest.

The princess (pictured) has been ‘hands on’ over every aspect of the service and held regular planning meetings at Windsor

The Princess was all smiles as she arrived at the festive event at Westminster Abbey to check over preparations ahead of the concert

The Princess of Wales styled her brunette locks in elegant waves and opted for a smattering of glamorous makeup to complete her look

The Princess of Wales arrived on her own at 4pm to view the abbey and oversee last minute arrangements.

Sources have told the Mail that the service’s theme of empathy and the importance of the support of others at the most difficult times in our lives has, understandably, been inspired by the princess’ own experiences this year

But the princess (pictured left) has also been keen to highlight others who are also going through similarly hard experiences

Supported by her Royal Foundation, Kate (pictured) has been determined to ‘celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled and comforted and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive’

The future queen’s concert, which will air on ITV1 on Christmas Eve for the fourth year in a row, is supported by The Royal Foundation

This year´s concert is designed to celebrate the support people give to one another, especially as they struggle through difficult times, a theme that may have particular resonance for the princess

Kate has hosted the carol service since it began in 2021, celebrating the work of doctors, nurses and emergency workers as Britain returned to normal following the COVID-19 pandemic

The carol service will feature performances by singers Gregory Porter and Paloma Faith. Prince William, actors Richard E. Grant, Michelle Dockery and Sophie Okonedo, as well as Olympic swimming champion Adam Peaty will give readings linked to the theme of love and empathy

The Duchess of Edinburgh looked glamorous in a statement patterned dress for the event

Susanna Reid looked incredible in a velvet trouser suit and silver heels as she attended the event with her beloved mother Sue who worked as a nurse and health visitor for 50 years

Giovanna and Tom Fletcher made for a picture perfect couple as they strolled into the venue 

Olympian Adan Peaty held hands with his fiancée Holly Ramsay as they entered the Abbey 

Kate Garraway layered a plush white coat over a burgundy dress while Lorraine Kelly paid a nod to her Scottish roots by donning a vibrant plaid trench coat 

Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan linked arms as they headed into the Abbey 

Good Morning Britain’s Charlotte Hawkins looked radiant in a burgundy dress and coat, pictured left. Pictured right, Strictly’s Amy Dowden dressed all in red for the occasion

The Duchess of Gloucester arrives for the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey

The artist said: ‘Love, empathy and kindness are important messages for us all.

‘As the theme of The Princess of Wales’ Carol Service this year, it was very special to have been asked to create the illustration for the Order of Service. I hope it reminds us of the beauty of being there for each other at Christmas.’

This year, alongside their Order of Service, each guest will receive a special letter from The Princess of Wales, thanking them for all they have done to provide comfort and hope to those who need it the most.

In the letter, Her Royal Highness also reflects on the importance of love, empathy and how much we need each other in spite of our differences. 

The future queen’s concert, which will air on ITV1 on Christmas Eve for the fourth year in a row, is supported by The Royal Foundation and today attended by royals and celebrities, including Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith and Adam Peaty.

The service will, Kensington Palace said, ‘shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities’. ‘It’s been a focal point for her, as it is each year,’ a source added.    

Combining traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none, the service will see the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir perform some of the nation’s most beloved carols, alongside musical performances by guests including Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith and JP Cooper, as well as a specially composed piece by pianist Rosey Chan. 

Guests will also watch a specially curated performance by two Soloists from The Royal Ballet and students from The Royal Ballet School. 

Choristers arrive for a rehearsal during preparations ahead of the Together At Christmas carol service

Preparations ahead of the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey

The festive decorations found in Westminster Abbey ahead of Kate’s Together At Christmas carol service

Westminster Abbey pictured ahead of the Together At Christmas carol service

Preparations ahead of the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey in London

This year a ‘Kindness Tree’ will be situated outside the Abbey for guests to dedicate a decoration to someone who has supported them throughout their life, highlighting the importance of empathy, love and kindness to us all. Pictured, preparations ahead of the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey in London

A letter from The Princess of Wales for the 2024 Together at Christmas Carol Service

The cover for the Order of Service has been designed by British illustrator Charlie Mackesy and bears a powerful message of hope – as Kate returns to public life after completing her cancer treatment earlier this year 

Workers trim the tree for the Princess of Wales’ carol service

The event takes place at Westminster Abbey

During the service, poignant readings linked to the theme of love and empathy will be delivered by speakers including The Prince of Wales, Olympian Adam Peaty OBE, Sophie Okonedo CBE, Michelle Dockery and Richard E. Grant. 

Alongside this, candles will be lit by notable people linked to the theme including Lindsey Burrow, Sir Chris Hoy MBE, and teammate Paralympians Lizzi Jordan and Danni Khan. 

Nodding to the importance of nature as a source of healing and comfort, the Abbey will be adorned with sustainable, festive decorations and foliage, providing a beautiful Christmas backdrop for the Service. 

This year a ‘Kindness Tree’ was situated outside the Abbey for guests to dedicate a decoration to someone who has supported them throughout their life, highlighting the importance of empathy, love and kindness to us all.

‘In addition, guests waiting to enter the Abbey, will be treated to 2 music by young performers, including a 25-piece steel pan band and jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a nationwide charity funding music education for young people. 

The event will be broadcast as part of Royal Carols: Together At Christmas, a special programme, airing at on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve. 

The broadcast will feature three special films which bring to life the stories of people and organisations who have inspired, counselled and comforted others in their times of need. 

Alongside the service at Westminster Abbey, fifteen community carol services will be taking place around the UK across December to provide a moment for people to come together and celebrate community work during the festive season.

Hosted by Lord Lieutenants, and supported by The Royal Foundation, these events will be tailored to their local communities whilst also including elements of the Westminster Abbey service – including the special letter from The Princess of Wales.