The Prince and Princess of Wales were in the principality on the eve of St David’s Day for a series of engagements related to mental health and emergency services—and, of course, some friendly competition between the notoriously sporty couple.
Upon arrival in Wales, William and Catherine travelled to the Brynawel Rehabilitation Centre in Pontyclun for the launch of a special initiative between their eponymous Royal Foundation and the mental health charity Life at No. 27 for a series of therapy gardens that will support mental health in the community.
The Princess helped plant the appropriately-named Sweet Williams — flowers she carried in her wedding bouquet in 2011 — in the therapy gardens. At Brynawel, the residents who stay there will be able to garden as a form of therapy in addition to more traditional mental health support programmes.
Annabelle Padwick, the founder of Life at No. 27, said in a statement, “Working with The Prince and Princess of Wales is so important as their support enables us to collaboratively raise awareness of the work we do, the growing vital need that we aim to meet and how much the experiences and relationships we have can shape our future.”
On social media, the couple shared: “Exciting news! In our second Community Impact Day we’re launching a collaboration between The Royal Foundation and Life at No.27, creating allotments and therapy gardens to support mental health and wellbeing in communities across South Wales.”
Later in Port Talbot, the royal couple visited the Aberavon Leisure and Fitness Centre, where they took part in a spin cycle race. Catherine — who wore a skirt and heels — was overheard saying, “Not sure I am dressed for this,” although she ultimately beat her husband.
They posted on social media afterwards, “Leisure centres like the one at Aberavon are at the heart of our communities and play such an important part in helping us all lead a healthy lifestyle – including through regular spin classes…”
The Aberavon Leisure and Fitness Centre added on Facebook: “Our special guests took part and met some of our members and clubs across various activities including Swimming, Chair Yoga, Indoor Athletics, Gymnastics and a very hotly contested Indoor Cycling race!”
Finally, the royal couple travelled to Llanelli to visit the headquarters of the Wales Air Ambulance Charity, where they met with staff and volunteers and opened the new family room. William was revealed as its Royal Patron shortly before the visit began.
In a statement on their official website, Sue Barnes, Chief Executive, said: “It is an immense honour for our charity to welcome His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales as our Royal Patron. This announcement comes not just a day before St David’s Day but also the day before our charity celebrates its 22nd birthday.
“The Prince has first-hand experience of working in the unique and often challenging air ambulance environment. His work, along with The Princess, in highlighting the need for mental health support for frontline emergency workers is something that is appreciated and wholeheartedly supported by our charity. We look forward to our new relationship with The Prince as our charity continues to support a lifesaving service for the people of Wales.”
This marks Prince William’s first Welsh patronage since assuming the title last fall.
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