Princess Kate made a heartfelt gesture during the St Patrick’s Day parade by putting money behind the bar for the Irish Guards.
The Princess of Wales returned to her duties at Wellington Barracks in London after missing last year’s celebration.
As Colonel of the Irish Guards, she joined soldiers for a drink after carrying out ceremonial duties.
When thanked for putting money behind the bar for the guardsmen, the Princess replied: “That’s the least I can do.”
Princess Kate made a heartfelt gesture during the St Patrick’s Day parade by putting money behind the bar for the Irish Guards
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Kate was forced to miss last year’s parade after undergoing treatment for major abdominal surgery.
In February 2023, she wrote to the regiment apologising for her absence as she continued her recovery from abdominal surgery.
She later announced tests after the operation had found cancer present, and she was undergoing chemotherapy.
In her significant return to the occasion, Kate wore a striking bottle green Alexander McQueen coat dress, paired with black heeled boots and a stylish beret.
The Princess of Wales returned to her duties at Wellington Barracks in London after missing last year’s celebration
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She finished the look with a gold shamrock brooch, loaned exclusively to members of the Royal Family for St Patrick’s Day celebrations.
The brooch was first captured in photographs adorned by the Queen Mother, who held the position of Colonel-in-Chief of the Regiment.
The Princess presented traditional sprigs of shamrock to officers and guardsmen during the parade.
She also gave a sprig to Turlough Mor, also known as Seamus, the regiment’s Irish Wolfhound mascot, bending down to give him an affectionate ruffle.
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Princess Kate joined soldiers for a drink after carrying out ceremonial duties
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Kate attached her own sprig to her lapel before taking the Royal Salute during a march-past.
The royal was seen sipping a half pint of Guinness as she chatted with soldiers.
Senior Guardsman Barry Loughlin proposed a toast in her honour before the soldiers gave her three cheers.