The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a new family photograph as they paid tribute to mountain rescue volunteers across the country.
Kate and William marked Mountain Rescue Awareness Day with a special message expressing gratitude to those who give up their time to protect people in demanding terrain. Kensington Palace shared a joint message from the couple on social media.
Previously unseen photograph
Accompanying the post was a previously unseen snap of the couple with their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, all beaming for the camera. The photograph was taken in June when the Princess of Wales undertook her Three Peaks Challenge, a gruelling feat of endurance.
The family stood alongside local mountain rescue volunteers, accompanied by a message of gratitude expressing deep admiration for the volunteers who brave the elements to keep the public safe.
Royal tribute to volunteers
The royal couple reflected on the "dedication, professionalism and compassion" of the rescue teams, drawing on their own recent experiences in the UK's most challenging landscapes. The tribute referenced an impressive personal milestone for the Princess of Wales, who successfully completed the challenge this summer.
The endurance test involves climbing the highest mountains of Scotland, England, and Wales – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon – often within 24 hours, highlighting Catherine's love for the outdoors.
The royal couple said: "On Mountain Rescue Awareness Day, we send our heartfelt thanks to all those who volunteer their time and expertise to keep people safe in some of our most beautiful but challenging landscapes.
"Through our connection with this remarkable organisation, we have seen first-hand the dedication, professionalism and compassion that define their work.
"Meeting local mountain rescue teams during the Three Peaks Challenge this summer was an opportunity to say thank you in person for the vital role they play in keeping walkers and climbers safe on the mountains all year round.
"We are incredibly proud to support the extraordinary volunteers who respond in all conditions, often at a moment's notice, to help others when they need it most. To everyone across the mountain rescue community, thank you for your unwavering commitment, courage and service."
Challenge encounters
Mountain Rescue Awareness Day is intentionally timed to coincide with the annual clock change, as evenings suddenly grow darker and risks increase.
After revealing she had completed the challenge in June, many fellow hikers have revealed how Kate stopped to chat to them as she scaled the summits. Among those she spoke to was Ted Haslam, from Sutton Coldfield, who was pushed and carried by 15 friends and relatives, including his father Paul, who were also completing the Three Peaks Challenge.
A clip on social media showed Kate bumping into the group at the top of Ben Nevis and taking time to speak to Ted, who was diagnosed with an aggressive spinal tumour at the age of three and was raising money for children's charity Molly Olly's Wishes, which supports children with life-limiting illnesses.
