PRINCESS Kate dazzled as she joined her husband Prince William and children for the Together at Christmas carol concert.
The service, airing tonight on ITV, is dedicated to the Queen as the Royal family spends their first festive season without the late monarch.
Kate Middleton introduced the service with a dedication to the late Queen
The performers at the carol service this evening includes the Westminster Abbey choir, singer Craig David and Alfie Boe and Melanie C who sung a duet, while William and Dame Kristin Scott Thomas delivered readings.
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.
Narrated by Catherine Zeta-Jones, Royal Carols: Together At Christmas was filmed on December 15 in front of an audience of more than 1,800 people at Westminster Abbey.
In the lead up to the event, Kate paid tribute to the Queen’s “incredible legacy” and thanked her for “bringing us together” in a touching video message.
The princess, who spearheaded the service with support from The Royal Foundation, 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.
“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.”
