The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are to visit Scotland this week as part of a UK-wide tour to thank NHS staff for their efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.
William and Kate will travel north of the border by train between December 6 and 8 to pay tribute to staff across the UK, racking up more than one thousand miles of travel by train.
They will meet frontline workers, volunteers, care home staff, teachers and schoolchildren and young people to hear about their experiences and sacrifices during the last year.
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A spokeswoman 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.”
It is thought this week's tour will be the duchess' first official journey by the royal train.
Many of the official events will celebrate community spirit and the impact of the public’s generosity by showcasing organisations and initiatives supported by community relief funds, including NHS Charities Together.
The UK’s arts, heritage and live performance sector, which has been supported by the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund, will also by highlighted.
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There will be a number of festive performances across the three days by local artists, celebrating the inspiring work of organisations and projects the duke and duchess will visit.
Kensington Palace said the three-day tour, which ends on Tuesday, will make stops in England, Scotland and Wales in line with Government coronavirus guidance.
Ahead of the trip, a ten-year-old British artist, Joe Whale, has created a doodle to bring the journey to life.
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