KIt’s been back to business for the royals and back to business for Britain this week, as the nationwide lockdown has been lifted to allow non-essential shops to open. Following a message of support from the Queen to business communities as they continue to reopen, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been out and about in Norfolk visiting local shops and services.
Kate and William, who are currently still staying at their country house Anmer Hall, have been flying the flag for local shops and businesses in Norfolk where they have been isolating since the start of the lockdown.
Earlier on Friday William visited a local bakery which has recently opened its doors to the public, while Kate stopped in at a local garden center in Fakenham on Thursday. Revealing that her children had been growing tomato plants at home during the lockdown, she also said that she and William had only left the house to go food shopping.
“I’ve been food shopping but I have to say I haven’t been out a huge amount more, but it’s good and so important, now as things start to ease, people know they can go out and particularly to places like this,” the Duchess said.
Kensington Palace said Kate and William wanted to meet with staff “to hear how they have been impacted by coronavirus, and how they are returning to a new normal now that lockdown measures are easing.” William, who has a sweet tooth, looked thrilled to be presented with a cake ahead of his 38th birthday on Sunday, which also happens to be Father’s Day.
Vanity Fair understands there will be a family celebration and William is hoping to see his father Prince Charles. “I understand they haven’t seen each other yet which has been very sad for them both but I’d say there’s a high chance they will try and see each other this weekend,” said a family friend.
Charles has spoken of his sadness at not being able to see his family, particularly his father Prince Philip, who turned 99 last week. The occasion was celebrated with a rare public portrait of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh in the quadrangle of Windsor Castle, where the royal couple have been self-isolating.
Charles was the first royal to resume duties when he and Camilla returned to London from Balmoral and visited a hospital in Gloucestershire. Yesterday Charles met with the French President Emmanuel Macron at Clarence House. William and Princess Anne also participated in engagements this week.
While the royals have returned to work, their engagements look very different to those pre-covid. While they are not wearing masks, they are observing the two-meter social distancing rule and there has been no hand-shaking.
Aides at Buckingham Palace are currently working on autumn programs for members of the Royal Family, which will see the senior principals travelling around the country as it gets back on its feet.
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