Royal fans all say the same thing as Princess Kate steps out on first public engagement since cancer treatment

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge paid a heartfelt visit to Southport where they met with the brave emergency responders involved in the tragic stabbing incident that claimed the lives of three schoolgirls and left ten others injured.

Kate Middleton made a last-minute decision to join Prince William on a visit to the town where she delivered hugs and a heartfelt "thank you". They couple offered their condolences and support to the families affected by the harrowing event that unfolded on July 29 during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on Hart Street.

Tragically, Alice Da Silva Aguiar, Elsie Dot Stancombe, and Bebe King were killed in the attack, which also saw eight children and two adults sustain injuries. After spending approximately an hour and a half with the grieving families, William and Kate made their way to the Southport Community Centre.

READ MORE: Kate Middleton makes surprise public appearance to meet victims of Southport attack

There, they engaged with the emergency personnel who responded to the crisis, listening to their experiences and meeting with health practitioners dedicated to supporting Southport's "blue light" services. This unheralded visit to Southport marked the couple's first official joint engagement since Kate completed her chemotherapy treatment for cancer earlier in the summer.

The Princess of Wales speaks with members of the emergency services during a visit to Southport Community Centre
The Princess of Wales speaks with members of the emergency services during a visit to Southport Community Centre

Initially planned as a solo engagement for Prince William, it is understood that Kate chose to accompany her husband to express her solidarity, understanding, and care for the community. In recent weeks, the princess has been gradually resuming her public duties, following her announcement four weeks prior that she had finished her chemotherapy and her focus would be "doing what I can to stay cancer free.''

Kate wore a long brown coat and heels with her hair down and curled and William wore a suit of similar colours. Taking to the Facebook comments fans commented on Princess Kate's appearance, the ECHO reports.

Elaine said: ''she is looking well'' and Kate wrote ''lovely Kate.'' Commenters seemed to be saying the same thing as Aud added: ''She is so lovely inside and out.''

James left a heartfelt tribute to Kate saying ''Beautiful photo of our future Queen.''

Kate wore a long brown coat and heels with her hair down and curled and William wore a suit of similar colours
Kate wore a long brown coat and heels with her hair down and curled and William wore a suit of similar colours

The princess broke royal protocol during the visit to Southport after emotional encounters with families and emergency workers. Traditionally people aren't allowed to touch a Royal unless one offered their hand. However, during yesterday's visit, Princess Kate hugged several of the emergency responders.

Chief fire officer for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service Phil Garrigan said he had a "really lovely fleeting conversation" with William and Kate after they had spoken to the group of emergency personnel.

He said: "The Princess of Wales broke off and came back into the building to give a hug to the people who responded because she could see the emotion in them and could see it was difficult for them to relay their feelings and to say how impactful events have been I think that just shows a really caring side and is very, very touching for them."

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