Catherine shares first full Welsh message as St David's Day In Welsh video is released
Catherine, Princess of Wales, has delivered a video message entirely in Welsh to mark St David's Day, in a move that underscores the royal couple's public engagement with Wales. The short film, which features Prince William speaking in Welsh as well, was recorded earlier this week on the Windsor estate and published by Kensington Palace.
Video release and the couple’s brief Welsh remarks
The video was posted on Sunday and features both Catherine and Prince William speaking in Welsh. William opens by saying, "To everyone in Wales, a very happy St David's Day, " standing alongside Kate. Catherine tells viewers that "Wales is very close to our hearts, and we look forward to every visit. " William adds that "It is a beautiful country, with a rich history and wonderful people, " and Kate closes the message with: "Wishing you a day full of celebration with family and friends. " The recording was made earlier this week on the Windsor estate.
Royal visit to Powys and mid Wales: The Hanging Gardens, Llanidloes and Newtown
Earlier this week the royal couple visited Powys, where they greeted cheering crowds holding bunches of daffodils, the national flower of Wales. During that trip they first travelled to The Hanging Gardens in Llanidloes, a community project focused on resilience and creativity, before visiting an art gallery in Newtown. On a rainy Wednesday during the visit, Catherine spoke about her passion for mothers' mental health and met members of a perinatal service for women experiencing problems linked to early motherhood.
Crowds, daffodils and a soggy reception
The pair arrived to cheers from crowds waving Welsh flags and holding bunches of daffodils, then spent time sipping hot drinks and chatting to people who were making signs, baking cakes and preparing traditional stew for festivities. Despite the wet weather, the royal couple braved the conditions for 25 minutes to speak to well-wishers and pose for selfies.
Prince William’s follow-up and last year’s precedent
William, who delivered his first message in Welsh on St David's Day last year, reprises the language in this year's joint video. In the new message he emphasised the country's qualities and offered holiday wishes, while Catherine spoke in Welsh for the first time in a full video message to mark the occasion. The couple's short filmed remarks accompany their recent visits across mid Wales.
