THE ROYAL train has pulled up in Reading today as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge made their eighth stop with a visit to the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

Their Royal Highnesses pulled up in their car outside the historic frontage of the Reading hospital and were greeted by a number of staff - stood at a safe social distance.

CLICK HERE Live updates as Prince William and Kate Middleton arrive at Royal Berkshire Hospital

Kate and Will spoke to several staff and gave their thanks to those who have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic to keep our town and population safe.

They met just a few of the 775-strong team of nurses and midwives at the Royal Berks and were shown a special badge that was designed by lead nurse Rafael Fernandes and funded by NHS Charities Together to mark the 2020 Year of the Nurse and Midwife.

Reading Chronicle:

The Great British Bake Off team have also sent a special cake to the hospital that pays tribute to their hard work over the past year.

Songs were also performed by members of the Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra, who are supported by the organisation CultureMix, who have been funded through the Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund.

Reading Chronicle:

A spokesperson for Kensington Palace said: “The Duke and Duchess are very much looking forward to shining a spotlight on the incredible work that has been done across the country throughout this difficult year and to sharing their gratitude on behalf of the nation for all those supporting their local communities ahead of the Christmas holidays.”