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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Amber Hicks

Kate Middleton and William meet cheering crowds in Lake District on rural visit

Kate Middleton and Prince William were greeted by throngs of flag-waving well-wishers as they arrived in Cumbria this afternoon.

The Duke, 36, and Duchess, 37, have travelled to the market town of Keswick to celebrate the "resilience and spirit" of rural and farming communities in the region.

The couple looked casual in jeans - with Kate wearing a £275 olive jacket by Troy London and suede hiking boots by Chloe - as they waved to those who had gathered to catch a glimpse of them.

Kate also greeted some of her furry fans and bent down to stroke several dogs she spotted in the crowd.

They have a busy day of activities (James Whatling)
Kate stopped to chat to the hundreds who had lined the streets to see her and William (PA)
Kate burst into laughter chatting to some of the crowd (PA)

Heather Selkirk, 35, from Whitehaven, arrived early to bag herself a front-line spot.

She told the Times and Star: “I’m the number one fan, I’m a proper royalist. I’ve been here since 9 o' clock.”

Kate and William are set to get a taste of what life is like being a farmer later today as they try their hand at sheep shearing.

Kate bent down to pet a dog in the crowd (REUTERS)
Kate appeared smitten with the pooches (PA)

They will join a celebration to recognise the contribution of individuals and local organisations in supporting communities and families across Cumbria.

They will meet volunteers including those from the local mountain rescue service, community first responders, young people trained as mental health first aiders and other organisations that have benefitted from grants from the Cumbria Community Foundation.

She couldn't resist petting them (PA)
The Duchess of Cambridge meets working dogs on a walkabout in Keswick town centre (PA)

Before departing Keswick, The Duke and Duchess will spend some time in the Market Square meeting members of the public gathered outside.

So far, they have been chatting to stall holders selling cheese.

KATE AND WILLIAM HEAD TO ALCOHOL AND CHEESE STANDS AT LOCAL MARKET IN CUMBRIA
She shook hands with fans too (REUTERS)
Doting mum Kate made one little girl giggle (REUTERS)

They are also set to visit a traditional fell sheep farm, where they will have the opportunity to meet members of the Cumbrian farming community, and learn about some of the key challenges farmers are facing.

They will hear about the peer support networks helping those in the most rural areas and the innovative ways some farms are diversifying.

The Duke and Duchess will then spend time on the farm helping with activities such as sheep shearing.

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