The Duchess of Cambridge has today visited the Rugby Portobello Trust in North Kensington. Here, Kate helped prep for their Christmas party and speak to families to celebrate its work.
During her visit, Catherine handed out Christmas presents, helped with preparations for a children’s Christmas party, presented a letter of congratulations, and met families who were victims of the Grenfell Tower fire.
The Rugby Portobello Trust, which has supported families affected by the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy, runs programmes for children and families such as after homework clubs, sporting activities, social groups and tuition. Open to all local young people for fun, learning, participation, community and self-improvement, the organisation works with those from the ages of 5 to 25.
the duchess of cambridge handed out christmas presents during her visit; she also met with the families who were affected by the grenfell tower fire kensington palace)
the duchess of cambridge handed out presents to families at the community centre (kensington palace)
The trust’s ‘Magic Mums’ group were having a Christmas party and the Duchess handed out presents to children before helping lay tables for the party.
Giving one gift to a little girl in her mum’s arms, she told the youngster: “I love your jumper.”
Clearly enjoying herself, Kate, who is pregnant with her third child, spoke to other children as she placed Christmas crackers on the table, asking one little boy: “Are you looking forward to Christmas time?”
The boy, helping her lay the table, replied: “I love Christmas.”
duchess kate visited the rugby portobello trust who were having a christmas party; she handed out presents to parents and children kensington palace)
Kate then asked him: “What are you going to do?” He told her he didn’t have a Christmas tree ‘or chimneys’.
Earlier in the day, it was announced that The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge had been awarded gold Blue Peter badges for their work in the area of mental health; they were presented with the badges last week during a visit to Manchester, but it was only revealed today.
Kate helps set the table for the @RugbyPortobello Christmas party pic.twitter.com/FzVloyj7jW
— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) December 12, 2017
The letter read that they were all delighted to congratulate the team of staff and volunteers of the Rugby Portobello Trust on receiving the Inspirational Team Award.
It continued: “In the aftermath of the terrible tragedy at Grenfell Tower, you all worked tirelessly to help those bereaved by the fire; providing practical and emotional support virtually round the clock.
“Every member of your team – from cooks to youth workers, fundraisers to teachers and army of volunteers – has dedicated themselves to supporting the community. We were able to hear first-hand about your help for those bereaved during our visit to the Grenfell Community Hub in September, and we know how crucial your efforts have been at a time of overwhelming grief and sadness.
“Many congratulations on your award.”
Letter from William, Kate and Harry to families at @RugbyPortobello pic.twitter.com/DRWCzE20B0
— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) December 12, 2017
The Royal’s meeting with families affected by the Grenfell Tower fire took place in private – the trust has been pivotal in supporting them.
The Trust works with roughly 1,150 young people on and off site, including those affected by Grenfell.
Next week, the Duchess will join her husband, Prince Harry, The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall at a service to remember the victims; it will take place at St Paul’s Cathedral.
Catherine also chatted to youngsters who take part in music sessions and workshops at the community centre.
