Kate Middleton returns to hospital where she was treated for cancer in poignant visit

Kate Middleton has today (14 Jan) returned to Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, west London, where she was previously treated for cancer, to thank members of staff.

In an 'incredibly poignant' visit, the mother-of-three also spoke to fellow patients, who themselves are currently undergoing similar treatments.

A Kensington Palace spokesperson said: "The princess wanted to make the journey to both show her gratitude to the incredible team, but also highlight the world-leading care and treatment the Marsden provides."

During the visit, the 43-year-old - who wore a long dark brown tartan coat and burgundy polo neck and skirt - announced upon her arrival: "I was just saying, coming in the front entrance here, having made so many quiet, private visits, actually it’s quite nice."

She was then approached by one woman, who told her whilst Kate visited patients and their family: "I think you’ve managed the children amazingly well."

Kate then replied: "Oh that’s kind."

She added: "The treatments are really so different and so varied, it impacts families differently."

Last January, Kate was admitted to the London Clinic for major abdominal surgery, spending two weeks in hospital before recuperating at home.

Kate's visit today was unannounced (PA)

She first broke the news of her cancer diagnosis two months later, following mass speculation from the public regarding her whereabouts, after she was absent from the spotlight for several weeks.

Her latest unannounced solo visit - which also coincides with the news that she's become joint royal patron of the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust - comes four months after the Princess revealed she'd concluded chemotherapy.

In the weeks following the joyous news, her husband Prince William described 2024 as 'brutal' and probably 'the hardest year' of his life, with his father, the King, also having been diagnosed with cancer.

The Palace emphasised today, however, that Kate's hospital visit is not a reflection of her full return to public duties.

"Today was about visiting the Marsden to reflect on her own personal journey," a spokesperson said.

More to follow.