Prince William has shared a new picture of his wife Kate along with a personal message for her 43rd birthday.
In a post on X, he wrote: “To the most incredible wife and mother.
“The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W.”
The message featured a new, unseen black and white picture of the future queen, showing the princess wearing a gingham scarf as she smiles and tucks her hands into her jeans pockets.
The royal family’s official social media accounts shared a message reading: “Happy Birthday to The Princess of Wales!”
The message was accompanied by a photo of Kate smiling as she collected bouquets of flowers while attending church in Sandringham on Christmas Day.
The Princess of Wales is celebrating at home in Windsor with the Prince of Wales, with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis spending the day at school before a family celebration in the evening.
Over the last year Kate has undergone abdominal surgery, been diagnosed with cancer and faced chemotherapy treatment.
She spent nearly two weeks in the London Clinic after an operation on 16 January last year and was recuperating at home when she was told she had cancer and had to begin chemotherapy.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
2024: An unexpected year for Royal Family
Kate is expected to continue her gradual return to public duties this year.
After completing her treatment in September she said: “Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus.
“Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes.”
William described 2024 as “brutal” and probably “the hardest year” of his life. His father, the King, was also diagnosed with cancer and his treatment is expected to continue this year.