The Grin That Stole Christmas hearts
THE Duchess of Cambridge was full of festive spirit as she urged parents to talk about the “real meaning” of Christmas yesterday. Kate, 38, won more fans when she played with children and chatted to their mothers about the pressures of the season.
Single mum-of-three Toni Law, 26, told her that Christmas could be a “stressful time” because “you want your kids to have the best Christmas”.
Kate – who played up to the theme in a green jumper and red jacket – said: “It is stressful, you want to give them the opportunities to enjoy all aspects of it. There is a lot of pressure that Christmas has to be perfect. “Maybe instead of posting on social media about who has the bigger presents, tell people about the real meaning of Christmas instead.” The mother of three, the new royal patron of Family Action, arrived at Peterley Manor Farm, Bucks, to meet families supported by the charity. It aims to help with financial and mental health issues.
During her visit the Duchess enjoyed making eco-friendly reindeer feed, choosing Christmas trees and crafting decorations.
She has taken over the patronage from the Queen, 93, who held the role for 65 years. She in turn succeeded
King George V’s wife Mary in 1953. The charity’s chief David Holmes said: “Everyone at Family Action would like to extend our thanks to Her Majesty for her steadfast support and encouragement. I have seen the Duchess’s passionate support for disadvantaged families first hand and have been impressed by her leadership in understanding and promoting the vital importance of the Early Years [services].”