The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared a never before seen photo as they took part in a wave of thanks for volunteers who have just had a tricky weekend.
William and Kate sent heartfelt wishes to the teams who look after those exploring the many peaks and hills of the UK on Mountain Rescue Awareness Day.
The event, which comes just hours after two named storms battered parts of the UK making hill walking and climbing a treacherous pursuit, highlights the work of thousands of volunteers around the country.
As they shared their thanks, the Prince and Princess of Wales issued a new image of them with their children as they marked the Three Peaks Challenge that Kate undertook earlier this year to raise funds and awareness for the Royal Marsden who looked after her during her cancer treatment.
In their statement, William and Kate said ‘we send our heartfelt thanks to all those who volunteer their time and expertise to keep people safe in some of our most beautiful but challenging landscapes.”
The couple continued ”Through our connection with this remarkable organisation, we have seen first-hand the dedication, professionalism and compassion that define their work.”
Their tribute went on ”Meeting local mountain rescue teams during the Three Peaks Challenge this summer was an opportunity to say thank you in person for the vital role they play in keeping walkers and climbers safe on the mountains all year round. ”
It ended ”We are incredibly proud to support the extraordinary volunteers who respond in all conditions, often at a moment’s notice, to help others when they need it most. To everyone across the mountain rescue community, thank you for your unwavering commitment, courage and service.”
The message, posted to social media, was signed ‘W&C’.
In the new photo, the Prince and Princess of Wales are seen with their three children and a host of volunteers during Kate’s Three Peak Challenge.
The arduous walk sees participants climb the highest peaks in England, Wales and Scotland in 24 hours.
The Princess of Wales undertook the challenge alongside her younger brother, James Middleton.
At the end of their climbs, they were greeted by their parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, as well as Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
The walk was done to raise funds and awareness after the Royal Marsden became a special place for the Princess of Wales during months of preventative chemotherapy after cancer was found following major abdominal surgery that she underwent in January 2024.
In the months following remission, the Princess spoke often of how much peace and joy she got from being in the countryside and being surrounded by nature.
