Prince William reveals he is unable to participate in Christmas tradition this year
Prince William has revealed he is unable to participate in a Christmas tradition this year.
William admitted during a festive visit to military families in Wiltshire on Tuesday that he will spend Christmas Day with 45 members of his extended Royal Family.
The Prince of Wales made the disclosure whilst meeting soldiers and their families at Picton Barracks, Bulford Camp, where he distributed Christmas presents as Colonel-in-Chief of the 1st Battalion Mercian Regiment.
When asked about his own Christmas preparations, the Prince laughed: “Am I ready for Christmas? No, no way am I ready.”
He shared that the family gathering would see everyone “all in one room but normally spread out,” with plans for a long walk including the dogs.
During his visit, the prince found himself surrounded by festive jumpers but admitted he did not own one himself.
“Some people don’t own one,” he said, pointing to himself when questioned about his lack of seasonal attire.
He playfully blamed his equerry for the oversight, saying: “I didn’t know, you see that guy in the jacket, it’s his fault and I will be having a word.”
The prince received several Christmas cards for his children, including a special drawing of himself from 10-year-old Karson Heighway on a Post-it note, which he carefully tucked into his breast pocket.
Prince William offered a glimpse into his personal life, revealing he has been watching Netflix with Princess Kate, including “Black Dove” starring Keira Knightley.
When asked about what a prince does for fun, William admitted that being over 40 makes finding fun “hard to come by.”
He shared that he enjoys watching movies and spending time with his children.
The candid admission came during conversations with families at the sergeants’ mess, where he moved between 10 tables of servicemen and women and their children.
“10 tables, it’s like I’m speed dating,” he joked towards the end of his visit.
The prince engaged warmly with children during his visit, discussing their Christmas wishes.
Five-year-old Alexander Fitzgerald shared his desire for a Nintendo Switch, prompting William to advise about Mario Kart: “He was supposed to let your dad win sometimes.”
William met with young Hunter McNeil, who excitedly told the prince about his hoped-for Tyrannosaurus Rex gift.
The Wales family will spend the festive season at their Norfolk home, Anmer Hall.
They will join the wider Royal Family at Sandringham for their traditional church outing and Christmas Day lunch.