This time last year, Kate Middleton was nervously contemplating her future as a senior member of the royal family. Fast forward twelve months and the Duchess of Cambridge, is fully integrated in her royal life, helping husband William to raise awareness of the causes closest to his heart. On December 21, the couple will pay a visit to the homeless charity Centrepoint, an organisation with which the Prince has strong bonds.
"I remember my mother taking myself and Harry to visit it when we were children," the heir has said of the charity. "I was much younger, better looking and naïve then, but it helped to open my eyes to the world so many young London people face." Although the visit is tinged with Princes Diana's legacy, the Duke of Cambridge has always made it clear that his wife is her own woman and will bring her own style to the role.
Kate will be by William’s side as they take part in a cooking session and watch a talent show at the shelter set up to provide help to homeless youths between aged 16-25. These activities are a far cry from the night the future King spent sleeping rough to raise awareness (pictured).Before the trip to Centrepoint, the couple will joing Prince Harry at the Millies – an awards show on December 19, honouring the bravery of the servicemen and women in the UK. After their shows of solidarity, the royal couple will enjoy their first Christmas together as a married couple in Sandringham. They will join the Queen and other members of the Royal Family for the festive gathering at the estate in Norfolk.