Kate's heartfelt nod to the late Queen during Royal Christmas concert

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The Princess of Wales recorded a special introduction for Royal Carols: Together At Christmas
The Princess of Wales recorded a special introduction for Royal Carols: Together At Christmas

The Princess of Wales paid tribute to the Queen's 'incredible legacy' and inspiration in a heartfelt pre-recorded message for the Royal Family Christmas concert last year.

Kate dedicated the Christmas carol service to the late Queen, and said she had "deeply inspired many of us" in the introductory message for the festive concert to more than 1,800 people at Westminster Abbey.

The service, which was filmed and aired on Christmas Eve 2022 on ITV, took place on Thursday, December 15, hours after the final part of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's controversial documentary dropped on Netflix.

Kate will once again host the service this year and it comes after yet more royal drama. The concert, which takes place tonight, comes just days after the publication of explosive royal book Endgame, which paints unflattering portraits of several royals – including Kate.

Kate's heartfelt nod to the late Queen during Royal Christmas concert dqxikeidqkikdinvThe Princess of Wales recorded a special introduction for Royal Carols: Together At Christmas

It also reignited old tensions after the Dutch version of the book – which was recalled – dragged King Charles and Kate into the royal race row in a translation error.

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Last year Kate was joined by many members of the extended royal family including the Prince of Wales and their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte, King Charles and Queen Camilla. It hasn't been confirmed who will attend this year but senior royals are expected to rally round Kate in support.

Introducing the 2022 programme, the princess, who helped organise the service, said she was "thrilled" to return to the abbey for a second year. She said: "This Christmas will be our first without Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Her Majesty held Christmas close to her heart, as a time that brought people together and reminded us of the importance of faith, friendship and family, and to show empathy and compassion.

Kate's heartfelt nod to the late Queen during Royal Christmas concertMelanie C performed during the 'Together at Christmas' Carol Service (PA)
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"This year, we've invited hundreds of inspiring individuals to the service. Those who showcase the power of connectedness and community values, allowing us to continue Her Majesty's tradition of recognising and thanking those who have gone above and beyond to support others. Her Majesty leaves with us an incredible legacy and one that has deeply inspired many of us."

Kate dedicated the service to the Queen and to "all those who are sadly no longer with us". She added: "So, whilst Christmas will feel very different this year, we can still remember the memories and traditions we shared. Take time to slow down and celebrate with family and friends all the wonderful things that make Christmas so special."

A Christmas tree in the abbey was decorated with small Paddington Bear decorations, a nod to the late Queen's famous sketch, while guests were greeted with atmospheric snowflakes from a snow machine as they arrived at the entrance.

Princess of Wales' 2022 message in full

I am so thrilled to be back at Westminster Abbey for our second carol service. Last year’s event reminded me what I love most about Christmas, seeing people coming together, celebrating and experiencing special moments, whilst also thinking about the year that’s passed.

This Christmas will be our first without Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

Her Majesty held Christmas close to her heart, as a time that brought people together and reminded us of the importance of faith, friendship and family, and to show empathy and compassion.

This year, we’ve invited hundreds of inspiring individuals to the service.

Those who showcase the power of connectedness and community values, allowing us to continue Her Majesty’s tradition of recognising and thanking those who have gone above and beyond to support others.

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Her Majesty leaves with us an incredible legacy and one that has deeply inspired many of us. This year’s carol service is dedicated to her and to all those who are sadly no longer with us.

So, whilst Christmas will feel very different this year, we can still remember the memories and traditions we shared. Take time to slow down and celebrate with family and friends all the wonderful things that make Christmas so special.

I do hope you enjoy this evening and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Beth Hardie

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