Kate Middleton made a poignant message to children's hospices after unexpectedly missing Royal Ascot earlier in the week.

Since announcing in January she is in remission, the princess has been gradually returning to public duties. Her appearances have increased in recent weeks, attending three high-profile events – Trooping the Colour, the annual Order of the Garter service, and a visit to a V&A storage facility in London.

Princess Kate, who is Royal Patron of two children’s hospices, East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales, has marked this year's Children's Hospice Week, which is taking place from June 16 until June 22.