Prince and Princess of Wales celebrate St David's Day with first royal statement in Welsh: "Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus!"
The Prince and Princess of Wales have celebrated St David's Day with their first royal statement entirely in Welsh.
"Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus!" That was the message from the Prince and Princess of Wales, who have celebrated St David's Day by issuing the first royal statement in Welsh.
William and Kate shared a message for the Welsh celebration entirely in the native tongue, complete with daffodils on their lapels - the national flower of Wales. Translated into English, the prince said: "To everyone in Wales, a very Happy St David’s Day!"
And Kate went on: "Wales is very close to our hearts, and we look forward to every visit. It is a beautiful country, with a rich history and wonderful people. Wishing you a day full of celebration with family and friends."
The message came after the couple this week visited The Hanging Gardens, a community hub focused on resilience and creativity, in Powys, which included an unscheduled stop to meet well-wishers standing in heavy rain in the town of Llanidloes. They arrived at the venue to cheers from crowds who had gathered outside despite the rain, many waving Welsh flags and holding bunches of daffodils.
The couple ordered hot drinks at the café, with Kate having a cappuccino and William a cup of tea, before sitting down for a chat with people making festival signs in the Welsh language.
William and Kate also met children aged three and four waiting for them with signs they had drawn and at an adjoining market, William sampled a glass of cider before going into the kitchen where traditional Welsh stew cawl and Welsh cakes were being made ahead of the big national day.
This was due to be the end of their visit but after getting into their vehicle and being driven for a short period, William and Kate got out to meet well-wishers who had gathered in the rain. They each held a black umbrella and spent 25 minutes in heavy rain, chatting to people including children who handed them bunches of flowers and pictures they had drawn.
Kate gave high-fives and hugs, while both she and William posed for pictures and selfies with people.