Sophie Wessex received an especially warm welcome when she paid a visit to Rainbow House in Great Bookham, Surrey, earlier this week.
The Countess was clearly touched when one of the children threw his arms around her neck and treated her to a cuddle. And the youngster who bestowed the affectionate gesture was just one of several from all over Britain on hand to greet the royal guest.
Workers at the Rainbow Centre have been eagerly awaiting Sophie's return since she stopped by last November. The mum-of-one proved a huge hit with the children on that occasion, and this latest visit was no different, with both teachers and students clearly overjoyed to see their friend again.
The educational facility, which was set up in 1990 to help youngsters with cerebral palsy, aims to give families a break from the pressures of home life and hospital treatment. It also provides a special system of conductive education to equip the children with important life skills.