Princess Kate has returned to public engagements for the first time since her unexpected absence from Royal Ascot a fortnight ago.
Kate visited the RHS's Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital to highlight nature's therapeutic benefits.
The visit aimed to raise awareness about how time spent outdoors contributes to mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
The Princess's appearance marks a significant moment following her withdrawal from the prestigious racing event, where her name had appeared on the official carriage list before being removed in what was later described as an administrative error.
Princess Kate makes triumphant return with first appearance since sudden Royal Ascot withdrawal.
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GB News understands that Princess Kate was "disappointed" to miss Royal Ascot last month but prioritised maintaining a better work-life balance following her chemotherapy treatment. Her withdrawal from the racing event came suddenly, despite her name initially appearing on the official carriage list.
The Colchester visit demonstrates the Princess's continued focus on wellbeing initiatives and her gradual return to public duties.
Kate's visit coincided with the donation of 50 "Catherine's Rose" plants to Colchester Hospital, part of a wider distribution of 500 roses to wellbeing and community gardens throughout Britain this summer. The specially named roses are being sold to benefit the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
Recipients of the rose donations include Maggie's gardens for cancer patients, East Anglia's Children's Hospices and Horatio's Gardens for spinal injury patients.
Princess Kate beamed during her appearance.
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The Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital, which opened in July 2024, provides a restorative environment for NHS staff, patients and visitors.
The space was developed through a partnership between the RHS, Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity and NHS Charities Together, of which the Prince and Princess of Wales are joint patrons.
During her visit, the Princess met award-winning garden designer Adam Frost, who led the garden's design.
He explained how NHS staff were consulted throughout the design process to ensure the space met the needs of both staff and patients.
Princess Kate was last seen at the Order of the Garter.
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Kate joined volunteers in planting some of the "Catherine's Rose" plants in the wellbeing garden.
The garden serves as a community hub, offering activities for hospital workers and visitors.
The Colchester garden's impact on patients and NHS workers is contributing to research for the RHS's Blueprint for Wellbeing Gardens, scheduled for launch in spring next year.
The Princess subsequently visited Colchester Hospital's Cancer Wellbeing Centre, where she met with patients and staff to discuss how gardens in healthcare settings promote positive health outcomes, prevent poor health and support faster recovery times.
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