Prince William expresses 'great pride' as he takes up new role with the SAS

Military sources explained that William is a key supporter of the SAS and is believed to be the first-ever royal to become patron.

A military source told the Daily Mirror: "Prince William has visited the SAS recently and was delighted to accept becoming Patron of the Association.

"This is a very proud appointment, and he will be a fantastic ambassador for the organisation, which has for many years supported this secretive group of people.

"The prince has privately expressed great pride in representing them and wants to ensure that the achievements of these soldiers' lives on and that their families are well taken care of.

"He has even wished them and their families well for the Christmas festivities."

The SAS was set up in 1945 following the post-war disbanding of the original unit and provides help to hundreds of thousands of families.

The announcement comes as the Prince and Princess of Wales unveiled their 2025 Christmas card, featuring a relaxed family portrait captured in the Norfolk countryside during April.

The card "sent a clear message of solidarity", according to professional stylists, who suggested the Waleses made a "deliberate move away from high-polish formality".

Photographer Josh Shinner shot the image showing William and Kate, both 43, seated on grass surrounded by spring daffodils alongside their three children: Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, seven.

Rather than traditional festive attire, the family opted for coordinated country clothing in earthy shades.

William, Charlotte and Louis wore matching green knitwear, whilst George sported a brown gilet and Kate dressed in casual countryside wear.

The photograph was shared on Kensington Palace's social media channels with the message: "Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas."

Fashion commentators have suggested the seemingly casual image carried deeper significance.

Celebrity stylist Oriona Robb described the photograph as "a masterclass in quiet cohesion," noting that the couple had selected "an earthy, muted palette that mirrors the children's knits and layers, creating a sense of visual harmony without slipping into anything contrived".

She explained that the natural tones and textures represent "a deliberate move away from high-polish formality in favour of warmth, approachability and authenticity".

Ms Robb highlighted how the family achieved "unity without uniformity," with each member maintaining their individual style whilst being connected through shared colours.

She told the Mail: "This is modern royal dressing at its most effective: relaxed and very emotionally intelligent.

"It suggests stability and togetherness without saying a word; it is fashion used as quiet messaging."

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