Princess Kate hints at 'running out of time' on New Year

Princess Kate appears to be setting the tone for 2026 with a quiet but powerful show of compassion, generosity and hands-on royal duty. 

Just days into the new year and on the eve of her 44th birthday the Princess of Wales joined Prince William for a surprise visit to Charing Cross Hospital, leaving volunteers visibly stunned and staff deeply touched.

A ripple of “wow” spread through the room as William and Kate arrived unannounced during a staff tea break, the Princess elegant in a deep burgundy suit that struck the perfect balance between warmth and authority. 

William immediately broke the ice, cheerfully wishing everyone a Happy New Year before glancing at his watch and joking, “Can we still say that?”

For the volunteers, the moment was unforgettable. Maureen Gilmour, 86, who has spent the past three years volunteering with chemotherapy patients, described the visit as uplifting. 

“They are so sweet everyone was really positive. I loved it,” she said, as volunteers spoke candidly about the emotional demands of their work and the bonds they form with patients.

The visit carried particular meaning for Catherine, who is now in remission from cancer. 

After touring the hospital’s rehabilitation unit, he praised the NHS and its support systems, describing the relationship between patients and carers as “heartwarming” and essential to recognise.

The hospital stop marked the Prince and Princess of Wales’ first official engagement of the year, following a traditional Christmas at Sandringham, where they attended church alongside their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

 Behind the scenes, the Wales family has also been quietly reinforcing their commitment to charitable giving. 

Building on a visit Catherine made in 2023 with her children to a local baby bank in Windsor, the young princes and princess recently chose to support the same charity once again. 

The Wales kids personally selected essential baby items to donate, continuing what has become a meaningful family tradition of service.

Lauren Hall, co-CEO of the baby bank, revealed that the donations were thoughtfully chosen after staff shared a list of items most needed throughout the year. 

The gesture stemmed from a “pay it forward” moment during one of Prince William’s school visits.