Back to work! Catherine steps out for first royal engagement in three months

Like the majority of people around the world, the Duchess of Cambridge has spent the past few months in lockdown at home due to the spread of deadly Covid-19. However Catherine delighted royal fans on Friday as she stepped out in public once again.

After months of video meetings and phone calls, the duchess returned to work yesterday as she carried out her first in-person royal engagement since British Prime Minister Boris Johnson introduced lockdown rules back in March – and Catherine certainly looked pleased to be back in action.

The mother-of-three stepped out on her own as she visited Fakenham Garden Centre, where she met the centre’s owners and staff members and heard more about the measures that the garden centre has implemented to keep customers safe. The duchess’ visit was in line with the reopening of non-essential shops across the United Kingdom as restrictions begin to ease.

Several photos of the visit were shared online and showed Kate maintaining a safe two metre distance throughout. Despite the change in protocol though, the duchess looked delighted to be back at work and she dressed suitably for the occasion in a pair of skinny jeans and a practical waistcoat.

It wasn’t just Kate who was back in action yesterday though, as Prince William also visited a non-essential business. The Duke of Cambridge visited Smiths the Bakers, who have been serving the area of Kings Lynn for 50 years.

“With the owners of the bakery and members of staff, The Duke spoke about how coronavirus restrictions have impacted on the family-run business, with 80% of the company’s wholesale customers having to close their own operations,” a post shared by Kensington Palace read.

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While Her Majesty the Queen also sent a message of support to business communities this week, in her role as Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce. The Queen, who turned 94 this year, remains in isolation with Prince Philip at Windsor Castle.

“As many organisations around the country are reopening, I send my warmest best wishes and support to business communities throughout the United Kingdom, Commonwealth and across the world,” the monarch wrote. “At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities.

“As Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, it gives me great pride to see the contribution you and your members are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities.

“I wish all businesses every success in their endeavours in the weeks and months ahead.”