Prince William and Kate visit Southport to offer community support
The Prince and Princess of Wales have made their first joint public appearance since Kate announced that she had finished her chemotherapy treatment in September. The outing was to support the community of Southport after the tragic knife attack that took place in the area in the summer.
Kensington Palace said in a statement that the royal couple wanted to show their support to the locals and see how Southport residents “have come together as the town recovers”. The Merseyside area was left rocked after a mass stabbing incident at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on 29 July. Three children were killed, while 10 others were injured in the attack which scarred the nation.
During the visit, William and Kate met with the fire, ambulance, air ambulance, and police services at the Southport Community Centre. The Prince and Princess of Wales heard about people’s experiences responding to the attack and the impact it has had on their mental health. They also met mental health practitioners who have been working to deliver long-term support to the Blue Light community following the attack.
In Southport, Kate and William also met privately with the families of the three children who lost their lives, and with a dance teacher who was present when the attack happened.
“In the aftermath of the incident, the National Police and Wellbeing Service set up a fundraiser to help those who were involved in the immediate response. It was supported by the Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Blue Light Card Foundation, who made donations to help fast track psychological and physical rehab for police and ambulance personnel involved in the attack and the subsequent riots,” the palace said.
Per Sky News, Kate reportedly told the emergency workers: “I can't underestimate how grateful [the community] are for the support you provided on the day.
“On behalf of them, thank you. You're all heroes. Please make sure you look after yourselves, please take your time, don't rush back to work.”
The royals coordinated autumnal looks for the outing, with Kate opting for a chocolate brown coat and burgundy polka-dot pussy-bow dress. William wore a grey suit and burgundy jumper layered over a crisp white shirt and maroon tie.
Kate confirmed she had finished her treatment for cancer earlier this year, and is slowly beginning to ease back into royal duties.
Earlier this month, she was pictured hugging photographer and cancer patient Liz Hatton.
However, the visit to Southport marks Kate's first community visit meeting members of the public with her husband since late last year.
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