The coat featured a chic black bow tie underneath the collar, keeping her warm in the cold, while it was elegantly draped over a red tartan dress by Amelia Wickstead. The slit in the coat revealed a glimpse of the eye-catching skirt pattern. As a hostess, the mother-of-three wore pointed-toe black suede stilettos and looked happy as she entered the abbey alone.

Her husband, Prince William, and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, are expected to join her later. The Middleton family are also expected to attend, including her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, along with sister Pippa and brother-in-law James Matthews. They also attended the event last year. King Charles and Queen Camilla are also expected to attend. Among the 1,600 guests tonight are individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities during difficult times this year.

Each guest will receive a special letter from Catherine, expressing gratitude and sharing that love shines brightly even in dark moments. This Christmas service is a heartfelt celebration and a reminder that we should support each other throughout the year. Notable attendees include nine-year-old Chila Brown, who has raised over £2,000 through marathon running and bake sales for friends.

Olivia Bowditch from Dorset was invited for her volunteer work delivering anonymous letters. In addition, Divin Holly, who ran the London Marathon on an oxygen machine, will attend after raising £20,000. Paralympic swimmer Ellie Chalice is also invited, despite losing her limbs to meningitis, she has achieved great success in the sport.

Christopher Hall, who founded a charity promoting inclusivity through photography, will also be there. Families affected by the Southport knife attack, whom Kate and William met earlier, are among those invited. Six-time Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy, who is battling terminal prostate cancer, and Lindsay Burrows, widow of campaigner Rob Burrow, will also take part in the vigil.