Prince William began his new job as a pilot with the East Anglian Air Ambulance on Monday. The father-of-two told BBC that he was "feeling the nerves" as he arrived for his first shift at Cambridge Airport on Monday morning.
"It's my first day and I'm feeling the nerves," William admitted. "We're starting off on a wet Cambridge day, but I'm really looking forward to getting started.
© Photo: RexPrince William has begun work as an air ambulance pilot
"It's been a lot of effort and patience in training but we're here now and I'm looking forward to doing the job."
Prince William completed a civilian pilot course in September before undergoing specialist training with Bond Air Services, which he finished in spring. The 33-year-old will be based out of Cambridge Airport as part of a team which provides emergency medical services across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
© Photo: RexPrince William said he was "feeling the nerves" on his first day
The new role will be William's main job, but his roster will take into account his royal engagements and duties. The Prince will be paid a salary by Bond Air Services which he will donate in full to charity.
Speaking when the announcement was made, Patrick Peal, East Anglian Air Ambulance Chief Executive, said he was "delighted" that William had joined the team.
"This is really good news for the charity and we're delighted His Highness has decided to fly with us," he said. "We are confident this will help raise the profile of the charity and other air ambulance in the region and across the UK."
© Photo: PAPrince William and Kate christened their daughter Princess Charlotte on 5 July
William took unpaid leave after completing his air ambulance training in April. The Duke and his wife the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton, welcomed their daughter Princess Charlotte on 2 May and have since largely stayed out of the public eye at their home in Norfolk, Anmer Hall.
The couple made their first public appearance as a family of four at Princess Charlotte's christening on 5 July, with the official photos of the special occasion captured by Mario Testino. The images show Charlotte surrounded by members of her family including her great-grandmother the Queen, and older brother Prince George.
