Hello and welcome to Part 2 of our annual Year in Review. In Part 1, we looked at Kate's year abroad and several trips she and William undertook in Europe at the request of the Foreign Office as Brexit unfolded. Today, we're focusing on the year in the UK, engagements, speeches, notable events, and the year for the Cambridges personally.


January

We first saw the Cambridges publicly in 2017 on 8 January, the day before Kate's 35th birthday, attending Sunday service with the Middletons and the Royal family.


The Cambridges invited family and friends to spend the weekend at their country home Anmer Hall to celebrate Kate's birthday privately with a dinner party followed by hours spent enjoying the Norfolk countryside. They were joined by their neighbours the Marquess and Marchioness of Cholmondeley and close friends and godparents of Princess Charlotte, Sophie Carter and Thomas van Straubenzee.


The Duchess carried out her first engagement of 2017 on 11 January in support of her patronage, Anna Freud Centre for Children and Families. Wearing a belted blue Eponine London coat dress, Kate met with parents and discussed the challenging aspects of parenting, admitting it "is tough". Kate continued: "And with the history and all the things and the experiences you've all witnessed, to do that on top of your own anxieties, and the lack of support you also received as mothers...I find it extraordinary how you've managed actually. So really well done."


From there, Kate teamed up with William to mark the first anniversary of Child Bereavement UK's centre in Stratford.


A key focus for William, Kate and Harry in 2017 was their mental health campaign Heads Together. The trio spoke at a briefing at the Institute of Contemporary Arts in Carlton House Terrace today to outline the next phase as efforts intensified to create conversations around the world to break the stigma surrounding mental health. The Duchess said: "We have heard time and time again in the course of our work how talking can help heal the hidden challenges we can�t deal with alone, so the question that William, Harry and I have asked ourselves is, how we can get more people to start talking?"


Looking back at photos from the day now, how amazing did Kate's hair look? I think longer, fuller hair is gorgeous on Kate and frames her face beautifully. I know many will be in opposition to this thought, but I do hope we see a return of Kate's long hair soon :)


In late January, Kensington Palace revealed significant news regarding the Cambridges. As expected, Prince William decided not to renew his contract with the East Anglian Air Ambulance and it was revealed he would take up full-time duties in support of the Queen when he finished his role. The Palace said: "Their Royal Highnesses have loved their time in Norfolk and it will continue to be their home. From this autumn, however, the Duke and Duchess will increasingly base their family at Kensington Palace. As they have in recent years, Their Royal Highnesses are keen to continue to increase their official work on behalf of the Queen and for the charities and causes they support, which will require greater time spent in London." Undoubtedly a range of factors came into plans when making this decision. We now know Prince Philip would retire from official life just months after this press release and with the Queen now in her nineties, it was time. Another factor was likely the fact Prince George was to begin school in London. I suspect it seemed like the best time to make the transition.


Kate sported a rich green Hobbs London skirt suit for a visit to her patronage East Anglia's Children's Hospice as fundraising efforts continued for a new purpose-built hospice in Norfolk. A memorable moment came before the visit concluded, when Kate received an update on the appeal. Chief Executive Graham Butland spoke about Kate's "journey" since she became patron in 2012. He said: "Then that journey developed into your first public speech." Kate smiled and interjected - "terrifying". Mr Butland continued: "Terrifying, well I can tell you my former chairman was equally terrified that day." Rebecca English noted: "After Mr Butland's comments, Kate held her hands to her face as though she was blushing from his remarks."


February

February kicked off with William, Kate and Harry getting their running shoes on for a training day with runners participating in the 2017 Virgin Money London Marathon for Heads Together. They enjoyed a spot of friendly competition during the relay race.


The Duchess encouraged kindness at �The Big Assembly� by Place2Be hosted at Mitchell Brook Primary School. "I think that every child should have people around them to show them love and show them kindness, and that is what Place2Be is doing so amazingly here in your school."


That night, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended a Guild of Health Writers conference focusing on mental health. The theme of the conference was 'The Anxiety Epidemic'. Kate looked chic in a violet skirt suit by Oscar de la Renta.


Kate's first evening gown of the year came at the BAFTAs; she chose a bespoke off-the-shoulder, tiered, floral McQueen.


Duchess Kate spent Valentine's Day with local air cadets at RAF Wittering.


Kate travelled to Wales to visit two Action for Children projects supporting vulnerable families. It marked her first engagements with the organisation since becoming its patron, following on from Her Majesty. Kensington Palace said: "The Duchess of Cambridge is incredibly proud to follow the Queen as Patron of Action for Children. The Duchess firmly believes that every child who needs it should be given the best support at the earliest opportunity. She is looking forward to getting to know the people that make Action for Children such a success and meeting the young people they work with."


Kate and William joined other members of the Royal family for a reception hosted by the Queen at Buckingham Palace, kicking off 'UK-India Year of Culture', a year of events to celebrate cultural ties between the two countries and help build closer relations. Kate's look for the night was lovely: the Erdem Rhona dress and Oscar de la Renta Cabrina pumps.



Kate visited Ronald McDonald House Evelina London, marking the opening of their purpose-built 'home away from home� accommodation for the families of children being treated at Evelina London Children's Hospital.


March

Kate looked very Audrey Hepburn-esque in the Lock & Co Tiffany hat, inspired by Breakfast at Tiffany's, as she and William joined members of the Royal family for a service of dedication on Horse Guards Parade before unveiling the new Iraq Afghanistan Memorial on Victoria Embankment Gardens, London.


Kate chatted to the wife of a Royal Marine commando about Princess Charlotte and revealed: "She's the one in charge." :)


Before jetting to Paris for a two-day trip, William and Kate marked St Patrick's with the 1st Battalion Irish Guards at Cavalry Barracks, Hounslow. The couple enjoyed a pint of Guinness before leaving.


One of Kate's most interesting and insightful engagements came in late March when she gave a passionate speech at the launch of a maternal health film series with charity partner Heads Together. The engagement came the day after the horrific terror attack in Westminster and Kate appropriately began by "sending thoughts and prayers to all those sadly affected". Drawing on her own experiences, the Duchess admitted to a lack of confidence and feelings of ignorance as a mother. "It is full of complex emotions of joy, exhaustion, love, and worry, all mixed together.  Your fundamental identity changes overnight.  You go from thinking of yourself as primarily an individual, to suddenly being a mother, first and foremost." An important component of Heads Together was hearing the royals draw on personal experiences. Public speaking is something Kate, like many, finds very difficult. I thought the Best Beginnings speech was one of her finest and most personal.


The Duchess was glamorous in green Temperley London for the 2017 Portrait Gala.


March closed with the release of ten short films as part of the next stage of their Heads Together campaign. The films show a range of people, including well-known faces, discussing the first time they opened up about mental health and the impact it had on their lives. The royals commissioned the series, with leading directors including Stephen Frears (The Queen) and John Madden (Shakespeare in Love) participating in the project. I'm still struck by the honesty and bravery those involved displayed.


April

In April, ahead of Pippa's wedding, William and Kate were photographed arriving at Pippa and James Matthews' Kensington home for dinner with the groom's parents David and Jane Matthews. Kate wore a pretty off-the-shoulder Somerset by Alice Temperley dress.


It was a glamorous night at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane for the opening of much loved-musical 42nd Street. Kate was chic in a red tulle Marchesa dress, Gianvito Rossi pumps and Kate Spade Petty Pom Tassel earrings.


Following the terror attacks which took place in Westminster on 22 March, William, Kate and Harry attended a service of hope at Westminster Abbey. Attendees included the Home Secretary, the Rt Hon Amber Rudd MP, with the Acting Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Craig Mackey. Families of those killed in the attack, together with other victims, witnesses and first responders from the police, fire, paramedics, RNLI, lifeboat and NHS hospital services were also in the congregation.


Kate was photographed once again leaving Pippa and James Matthews' West London home for preparations ahead of her sister's wedding.


In an unexpected surprise, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined the Queen and members of the Royal family for Easter Service at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle. It was the first time they marked the occasion with the Queen and was seen as the beginning of a new tradition.


With just days to go until the London Marathon, Kate welcome Heads Togtether runners to Kensington Palace. Asked about Prince Harry's candid interview, in which he spoke of having counselling to come to terms with his mother's death, she said: "We all felt there was very much a campaign to get everyone talking and have these conversations. We�ve got to do the same, you know, so he�s been brilliant."


Duchess Kate wore a red Armani suit to officially open the Global Academy. As well as giving young people a route into the media industry, the Global Academy gives students the practical and technical skills they need to succeed in the real world. This includes encouraging young people to talk about any mental wellbeing issues they may be facing. During the visit, Kate chatted with Oliver Monger, 16,  who hopes to go into the film industry; he revealed he was too shy to talk "to someone so high". Kate told him, "I�m shy as well, so don't worry."


A highlight of the year came when William and Kate paid an unexpected visit to Radio 1 DJ Adele Roberts who was participating in the London Marathon. Speaking about Heads Together, Prince William described how "eye-opening" the experience had been. "This issue of mental health is really brimming under the surface of public consciousness," he said. Kate said simply talking could be "like medicine". We certainly didn't expect to see the couple at the radio studios, but it was a tremendous way to get the Heads Together message across to the public and a great setting for a relaxed chat. The Duke and Duchess also revealed they watch "a lot" of children's programmes with George and Charlotte. "George has gone past Peppa Pig," said William, adding that Fireman Sam was a big hit in their house at the moment. When it comes to adult programmes, the Prince said Game of Thrones "was worth watching". And they "absolutely" are allowed to order takeaway when it comes to movie night, with Kate favouring a curry. Kate chose black pants and the whimsical Temperley London Cypre top on the day.


Kensington Palace released a new video of William, Kate and Harry discussing why Heads Together matters to them, why they chose to tackle the stigma of mental health, and the personal reasons driving them. Why Heads Together and why mental health? William and Harry said the concept was actually Kate's idea. The Duchess said: "Because it's a common thread, mental health seemed to run between all the different areas we were working in, so whether it's homelessness, military [looking at Harry], and addiction with me, and bereavement [looking to William]." Kate opened up about the difficulties she faced when George was a baby particularly when they returned to Anglesey. "Having a child, particularly your first child is such a life-changing moment, nothing can really prepare you for that... The first few days with little George, you have no idea what really you are doing, no matter how many books you read, nothing can prepare you for it." Kate then turned to William and said: "Do you remember up in Anglesey? So we'd had our couple of weeks of family support and you were keen to get back to work and I was like: 'yeah, I'll come with you', so we scooted off back to Anglesey with George. Those first few weeks were a steep learning curve, massively."


William and Harry discussed "never talking enough" about the loss of their mother. Kate paid tribute to how strong they are. "Considering what you boys sadly went through, the trauma that you experienced... I think it's incredible how strong you are and how you've been able to cope really. I put that down to your really early years, your childhood experience." Harry said: "I always thought, what's the point of bringing up something that's only going to make you sad. It ain't going to change it. It ain't going to bring her back." Kate paid tribute to the princes' "amazingly close" relationship, saying it had obviously been a big help. "Most of the time," joked William, adding: "We've probably been brought closer because of the circumstances." The video was another highlight of the year in my opinion.


On 23rd April, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry officially started the 2017 Virgin Money London Marathon by pressing the big red button.


Efforts supporting William, Kate and Harry's Heads Together initiative have all been leading up to that day. More than 700 Heads Together runners took part in this year's London Marathon, raising money and awareness to change the national conversation around mental health. All 39,000+ runners in the event were given a Heads Together blue headband to help make 2017 the 'mental health marathon'. It is believed the event raised millions for mental health charities.


It was a day filled with smiles and hugs.


The royals were delighted at the support shown for the campaign.


May

April showers bring May flowers... May opened with the release of a gorgeous new photo of Princess Charlotte ahead of her second birthday. The photo was taken by Kate in April at their Norfolk home, Anmer Hall. The Palace said: "The Duke and Duchess are delighted to share the photograph to mark their daughter's special day on Tuesday. Their Royal Highnesses would like to thank everyone for all of the lovely messages they have received, and hope that everyone enjoys this photograph of Princess Charlotte as much as they do."


Kate enjoyed a day filled with 'Muck and Magic' when she travelled to Gloucestershire to visit Farms for City Children. Children�s author (best known for War Horse) Michael Morpurgo and his wife Clare founded Farms for City Children at Nethercott House in Devon in 1976. Rebecca English noted: "According to a spokesman for the charity, Kate read about its work in Country Life and approached them to see if she could come down to one of its farms." As you may have heard, Mr Morpurgo was awarded a knighthood for his services to literature and charity in the New Year's Honours list.


William, Kate and Harry hosted a very special tea party at Buckingham Palace to honour the children of those who have died serving in the armed forces. The Duchess got right into the spirit of fun and games. She was particularly eager to try her hand at firing water balloons. There was clearly a lot of thought and consideration given to making this a family-centred day with a host of entertainment and enjoyable activities for the children.


Kate brought back her blue Christopher Kane coatdress for the Queen's first garden party of the year at Buckingham Palace.


The 20th May was a very special day for the Middleton family as Pippa Middleton married James Matthews at St Mark's Church, Englefield. The Duchess was on hand to look after the pageboys and flowegirls which included George and Charlotte who both looked adorable.


And to adjust Pippa's train as her sister did for her at the Royal wedding.


Prince George led the way after the ceremony.


Pippa was a radiant bride in a bespoke Giles Deacon creation - crafted to give the impression of being seamless. Giles said of the collaboration: "I was thrilled to work with Pippa on her wedding dress." The dress is constructed with a cap sleeve, high neckline and features a corseted bodice with draping to the front and a heart-shaped detail at the back. The bespoke silk cotton lace was hand appliqu�d to create the illusion of the dress having 'no seams'. The lace bodice is embroidered with pearl detailing over an organza and tulle underskirt, which has layer upon layer to enable a floor-sweeping movement. It's a privilege to show the craftsmanship that my team produces in London and a real testament to Pippa's support of British fashion.


After family celebrations for the wedding wrapped up in Bucklebury, Kate returned to London to join the Queen for the Chelsea Flower Show. The Duchess was aptly attired for the flower show in a new floral dress by French brand Rochas teamed with her favourite Monica Vinader Siren Wire earrings.


To celebrate Children's Hospice Week, the Duchess has released a video message praising the extraordinary "dedication" and "inspirational" staff and volunteers. In the message, the Duchess highlights the fact there are more than 49,000 children and young people across the UK with life-limiting conditions. As patron of East Anglia's Children's Hospices, Kate noted the "incredible difference" it makes to families. "They deliver first-class care in a safe environment that feels as close to home as possible, full of colour, warmth, love and support." The video features the track Lego House by EACH ambassador Ed Sheeran.



As part of the ongoing Heads Together campaign, Prince William was interviewed by Alastair Campbell for British GQ. The spread features a black and white photograph of the Cambridges relaxing at Kensington Palace as they watch George, Charlotte and Lupo play. The photo was taken in April by Norman Jean Roy.


A second black and white image showing William with George and Charlotte was also included.


June

In June, the Duchess visited King's College Hospital to meet those affected by the London Bridge and Borough Market attacks. Speaking about the visit a royal aide told The Telegraph: "Although the story has moved on, publicly, this is a chance to thank the staff and reassure those still in hospital, many of whom have families with them, that people very much care." Kate asked about the roles of staff and praised their efforts, saying: "Well done."


In her role as Patron of the 1851 Trust, Kate attended the charity's final Land Rover BAR Roadshow at the Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre. The Duchess and the children spoke to Sir Ben Ainslie live from Bermuda about the team's experiences in the America's Cup. Whilst speaking to Ben Ainslie, Kate said: "Commiserations, obviously, but really well done. We've been watching with really keen interest. Both William and I have been glued to the telly. Well done to you guys. I gather now you're on to the next thing."


Kate chose a pretty pink McQueen dress and the Queen's earrings for Trooping the Colour. As always, it was a treat to see the entire Royal family on the balcony, including George and Charlotte.


Kate was elegant in white lace McQueen for the couple's second appearance at Royal Ascot.


Ahead of Kate's first appearance at Wimbledon as Royal Patron the Duchess gave an interview for a new documentary celebrating ninety years of Wimbledon. The avid tennis fan said: "I have watched Wimbledon, that was very much part of my growing up. I was really taken by Agassi and Sampras, Ivanisevic and Steffi Graf. Those are my first memories." Kate also said she queued for hours to get into the tournament before joining the Royal family, adding: "Being able to go into Wimbledon and be part of an amazing atmosphere is special. It inspires young people including myself. Every time Wimbledon is on I am thinking 'Yes, I could do the same' and get out the racket. Sadly, not the same results." Kate also recalled funny memories about her parents: "My father is not going to appreciate this but we were walking past Tim Henman and had just seen Sampras play. "My dad said 'Hi Pete'. I was mortified. Roger Federer is my mother�s heartthrob. I don�t think she will mind me saying that! I think he probably knows that too."


Sporting a stylish Gucci dress, Kate visited the Victoria and Albert Museum to officially open the new entrance, courtyard and exhibition gallery on Exhibition Road.


July

The Duchess debuted shorter hair for the opening day of the Wimbledon Championships. The visit had additional significance - marking her first visit to the championships as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club (AELTC).


We do love a tiara appearance here at 'Duchess Kate', so it was wonderful to see the Cambridges attend the State banquet in honour of the Spanish State visit of King Felipe and Queen Letizia. The night marked two milestones for the Royal family -  Harry's first State banquet and reportedly Prince Philip's last ahead of his retirement later this summer. Kate looked stunning in a bespoke pink Marchesa gown and dazzling jewels, including Diana's Lovers Knot tiara, Diana's Collingwood pearls and the Queen's Ruby and Diamond Floral Bandeau Necklace. Given the recent allegations about Harvey Weinstein, I have my doubts we'll see Kate in Marchesa again. The label was founded by his wife Georgina Chapman and it is said he financed it.


The following night, Kate chose a simple but pretty Preen dress for a night her at her patronage the Natural History Museum for the opening of the spectacular new Hintze Hall.


Kate wore a beautiful Catherine Walker dress and Stuart Weitzman sandals for the Wimbledon men's finals. The Cambridges cheered on Roger Federer as he secured his 8th Wimbledon title and 19th major singles title.


August

August is the Royal family's 'summer holiday' month and thus very few engagements are carried out.  The Cambridges joined the royals for a few days to enjoy the stunning scenery the highlands has to offer at Balmoral. They were photographed arriving for Sunday Service at Crathie Kirk.


A poignant engagement on the 30 August - On the eve of the 20th anniversary of Diana, Princess of Wales' tragic death, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry visited the Sunken Gardens at Kensington Palace, which has been transformed into the White Garden, dedicated to Diana and featuring a selection of the Princess' favourite flowers.


2017 was very much about remembering Diana for William and Harry, and preserving her legacy by sharing memories of their mother and the incredible work she did throughout her life. I was a small child when she passed; I'm glad to say I learned a lot about her during the year. As a mother, a Princess of the United Kingdom and a humanitarian, her commitment and duty to those who needed help was inspirational. I think, when one puts aside the intense interest and scrutiny which surrounded Charles and Diana's divorce and her personal life, she really paved the way for what a modern monarchy could be and achieve.


September

With William's work with the East Anglian Air Ambulance completed and the family moved to London, September was heralded as the month we could see William and Kate stepping up their royal duties exponentially. The first of Kate's autumn engagements was with Family Action on the 4th September. Photographers showed up the Hornsey Road and were told it was cancelled out of the blue. Shortly afterwards, Kensington Palace broke the happy news the Duke and Duchess were expecting their third child! As with her previous pregnancies, Kate suffered with Hyperemesis gravidarum and was very ill.

Three days later, Prince George started school at Thomas's Battersea. The significant day denoted an all-important milestone in any child's life. Like thousands of other children up and down the country, the four-year-old future king was likely feeling a little apprehensive as he began his new journey. Unfortunately, Kate was too unwell, to accompany George and William. I have no doubt it was enormously disappointing for her. George had his dad by his side, and despite those first day jitters, I'm sure he settled in quite well.


Kate showed her support for 'You're Never Too Young to Talk Mental Health' � the new campaign by Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families. The campaign featured a new animated film with an introduction by the Duchess. The piece was recorded in January 2017 when Kate visited the charity.


Kate returned to duties on 10 October to mark World Mental Health Day. An aide told reporters: "The Duchess' condition is improving but she is still suffering from Hyperemesis gravidarum. The Duchess is delighted to be able to be here tonight."


In an unexpected appearance, the Duchess joined William and Harry to meet children from the charities they support on board Belmond British Pullman train at Paddington Station. Who doesn't love Paddington Bear? Certainly, Kate is a fan and enjoyed a little dance with him. It was great to see Kate looking so well and on the mend.


Two days later, Kate joined William and Harry at West Ham United's London Stadium to attend the graduation of more than 150 Coach Core apprentices.


On Halloween, Kate joined a group of children for a decidedly non-spooky engagement at the Lawn Tennis Association. The outing marked her first solo engagement since the pregnancy announcement - a clear signal she was feeling much better and allowing for the return of appearances scheduled in advance.


It was the first time Kate has been accompanied by her new private secretary Catherine Quinn. Ms Quinn took over from Rebecca Deacon in October, bringing a wealth of experience to the role. A private secretary plays a pivotal role for any royal not just in a logistical sense. They are by their side at most engagements, travelling with them up and down the country. Ms Quinn is now a regular fixture at Kate's events.


November

In November, Duchess Kate hosted a round-table discussion on maternal mental health at Kensington Palace with the Royal Foundation. The Palace shared the following information on the discussion: "The Duchess is keen to develop an understanding of the issues surrounding maternal mental health, and to learn what support is available. At least 20% of women are affected by mental health problems during pregnancy or in the first year following the birth of a child. If left untreated, maternal mental health problems can have significant and long lasting effect on the woman and her family. The Duchess has spoken about the importance of having open conversations about maternal health, and the impact this can have on family."


The Cambridges were spotted at Chester Railway Station. It isn't known where the family were, but it has been suggested they may have spent the weekend at Eaton Hall where the Grosvenors held their annual bonfire and fireworks display on Saturday evening. The event would have been delightful for George and Charlotte, and Eaton Hall the ideal place for a relaxing weekend.


Kate brought back her DVF Zarita gown at the 2017 Gala Dinner for Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families (AFNCCF) in the Orangery at Kensington Palace.


At the Place2Be School Leaders Forum, Kate admitted: "As a mother just getting used to leaving my own child at the school gates, it is clear to me that It takes a whole community to help raise a child." She chose the GOAT Eloise dress for the day; the brand has become a favourite of hers.


The Duchess of Cambridge joined the Queen and a host of other royals for the annual Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall.


Remembrance Sunday marked changes for the Royal family. For the first time in her reign (aside from a handful of occasions she was absent when pregnant or overseas), the Queen did not lay a wreath, instead leading the service from a balcony. Her Majesty asked Prince Charles to lay her wreath, a decision seen as an example of a shift in head of state duties from the Queen to her heir. Buckingham Palace said the decision reflected her wish to be next to Prince Philip on this poignant day. Prince Philip's wreath was laid by his equerry.


A rescheduled engagement for Kate, as she visited Hornsey Road Children's Centre for an engagement with Family Action. There was a firm focus on perinatal health and during a chat with parents Kate admitted William found parenthood challenging initially.


The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh marked their landmark 70th wedding anniversary surrounded by family and friends at a special dinner held in the State Apartments at Windsor Castle. It was a wonderful opportunity for the Royal family to gather and mark the momentous occasion with Her Majesty and Philip's dearest friends. Unfortunately, a family photo wasn't released but thanks to arrival photos we saw a glimpse of Kate wearing the Queen's choker.


During an 'away day' in Birmingham, William and Kate kicked off the day at Jaguar Land Rover's Solihull Manufacturing Plant. Next, the Cambridges visited the Jaguar Land Rover Experience Centre, where they met Mountain Rescue volunteers participating in a vehicle familiarisation exercise. Kate was eager to get behind the wheel for a demonstration.


At Aston Villa Football Club (William's team) they met Coach Core apprentices. Finally, the Cambridges wrapped up the day at Acme Whistles, creators of the first police whistle and the original Acme Thunderer.


Amid a security alert, the Duke and Duchess attended this year's Royal Variety Performance at the Palladium Theatre in London where she met Louis Tomlinson and the ever-youthful Dame Joan Collins, amongst others. Kate sparkled in a new Jenny Packham gown.


During a visit to the Foundling Museum, Kate shared her delight at news of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's engagement: "William and I are absolutely thrilled. It�s such exciting news. It�s a really happy time for any couple and we wish them all the best and hope they enjoy this happy moment."


Kate showed off her green fingers as she joined pupils at Robin Hood Primary School this morning to celebrate their work with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Campaign for School Gardening.


December

Kate was photographed at King's Cross Station on 1st December wearing a new ZARA coat.


The Duchess sparkled in a new Jenny Packham gown, the Lovers Knot tiara, Diana's earrings and the Queen's Collet Necklace for 2017's annual Diplomatic Reception.


William and Kate travelled to Manchester for the Children's Global Media Summit at the Manchester Central Convention Complex. Kate sported the L.K. Bennett Deli coat and red GOAT Elodie dress.


For a festive pre-Christmas engagement, the Duchess of Cambridge joined children and families to celebrate the work of the Rugby Portobello Trust at its community centre in North Kensington. It was also an opportunity for Kate to get into the seasonal spirit as she helped staff and volunteers set up for their children's Christmas party later in the day.


The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry joined the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at St Paul's Cathedral for the moving Grenfell Tower National Memorial Service. It marked Kate's final engagement of 2017.


William and Kate were photographed departing the Kensington Palace staff Christmas party at Notting Hill dinner venue Beach Blanket Babylon.


The Cambridges' 2017 Christmas Card.


The family arriving for a staple on the royal calendar - the Queen's pre-Christmas luncheon.


When I saw the photo of Charlotte; I couldn't believe how much she had grown.


The following night, wearing a ZARA cape and McQueen petal print dress, Kate enjoyed a seasonal performance of The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House.


The Cambridges celebrated Christmas with the Royal family at Sandringham in 2017. The couple hosted Harry and Meghan over the festivities at Anmer. They attended Church at St Mary Magdalene where William revealed Santa had granted George's wish and left a police car under the tree. They arrived holding hands and looked incredibly happy.


Tim O Donovan's annual letter to The Times revealed the Duchess carried out 105 engagements in 2017. 42 of these were carried out on European visits abroad. With the arrival of Baby Cambridge and Kate's maternity leave I wouldn't anticipate we'll see a higher number in 2018. William, who began full-time duties carried out 171 engagements. I expect we'll see a substantial rise for him in 2018.


Richard Palmer reported:

'Palace officials had billed 2017 as the year in which the younger royals, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, would step up to the plate to help take over the Queen and Philip�s workload. But although Harry saw a 37 per cent rise in his duties from 152 to 209, William and Kate reduced theirs.
Kate, who spent the first half of the year prioritising her children, was for the second consecutive year the royal who completed the fewest number of engagements in the UK, with 63. There were 42 abroad, making a total of 105, down from 140 last year. She had been expected to increase her workload from September but she fell pregnant in the summer with her third child and missed engagements while suffering from severe morning sickness.
William too did fewer engagements, down from 188 in 2016 to 171 in 2017, despite giving up his part-time job as an air ambulance pilot in East Anglia in the summer to become a full-time working royal. In part, that may have been because he and Kate postponed a planned November tour of Sweden and Norway until next month.'

I expect it's quite likely the Cambridges rang in the New Year in Bucklebury with the Middletons before they returned to London as 2018 got underway. Princess Charlotte is due to start at Willcocks Nursery School; I believe term starts on 4 January. William and Kate will visit Sweden and Norway at the end of the month. It promises to be year full of milestones with Baby Cambridge arriving in April and Harry and Meghan's wedding in May. Kensington Palace shared a video of their highlights from 2017. It includes Charlotte receiving her first bouquet :)


I would very much like to thank you all for your support in 2017. It wouldn't be the same without your input and participation. I look forward to following the events of the next year on the blog with you all and anticipate lively and insightful debate on all royal matters to come. I'd also like to thank all the royal correspondents and photographers for their hard work and dedication, and also those working tirelessly to ID the Duchess' clothing and accessories. Wishing you all a happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year. I sincerely hope 2018 is a wonderful one filled with all you hope and wish for! :)