Kate Middleton thanks public for support as she shares new Mother's Day photo with children

Kate Middleton has shared a Mother's Day photograph following questions over her whereabouts.

The Princess of Wales, 42, had previously not made a public appearance since Christmas Day but was seen for the first time on Monday (4 March).

Over the last few weeks, fans have been wondering how Kate is, after she underwent a planned abdominal surgery at a private hospital in London earlier this year.

Now, Kate has taken to social media thanking the public for their continued support over recent months.

"Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months," she wrote.

"Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day. C."

In the post, she shared a photograph with her three children - Prince George, 10, Charlotte, eight and Louis, five.

Last week, Kate's representatives issued a statement on her whereabouts.

They told Page Six: "Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timelines of the Princess’ recovery and we’d only be providing significant updates.

"That guidance stands."

The outlet also reiterated that the 42-year-old is 'doing well'.

Kate underwent the procedure in January.

According to a statement released by Kensington Palace on 17 January, Kate was expected to 'remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days' following the 'successful' procedure.

The message - delivered to the official Instagram page of Kate and her husband Prince William - added that the mother-of-three is 'unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter'.

A spokesperson said: "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate.

"She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private."

The statement continued: "Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is significant new information to share.

"The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements.

"She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible."

The Palace hasn't yet confirmed what health condition the princess was being treated for, but it confirmed that her condition was non-cancerous.