The Princess of Wales’ Christmas concert paid a poignant tribute to John Lennon and George Michael as her children made a rare appearance for a night of carol singing.
Kate hosted her Together At Christmas event at Westminster Abbey and welcomed her family, members of the monarchy and inspiring individuals in celebration of those supporting children and families.
The Prince of Wales arrived with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, after Kate travelled ahead to thank celebrities for agreeing to perform, including Oscar winner Jim Broadbent and singers Beverley Knight and Adam Lambert.
As they walked into the Abbey’s forecourt the royal children paused for a moment to post Christmas cards, in a special postbox, containing messages for children who might be struggling this Christmas, something open to all youngsters attending.
The young royals – George, 10, Charlotte, eight, and five-year-old Louis – were all smartly dressed while their mother wore a Chris Kerr coat.
This year the service reflects the princess’s early years Shaping Us campaign launched in January, which aims to highlight and promote the significance of the formative years of a child’s life.
It was billed as a moment to thank all those who work to support babies, young children and families in communities across the UK and among the 1,500 guests were midwives, nursery teachers and baby bank volunteers.
Among the highlights of the service was songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier playing Wham!’s hit Last Christmas on John Lennon’s piano, which was owned by Wham! singer and later solo star George Michael and loaned by his estate.
The carol service was held 43 years to the day Lennon was shot dead, aged 40, outside his New York apartment on December 8 1980.
Broadcaster Roman Kemp, the son of Spandau Ballet bassist Martin Kemp and former Wham! backing singer Shirlie Kemp, introduced Collier and talked about the role George Michael, who was his godfather, played in his life.
