The Duchess of Cambridge had been due to appear alongside Prime Minister’s wife Samantha Cameron at a charity function today — the 20th annual ICAP fundraising event in the City.
Despite her absence, Mrs Cameron went ahead with the fundraiser which was aiming to beat last year’s £12 million haul for good causes.
She arrived shortly before 9am and was said to be performing “really well”, alongside staff in fancy dress, within minutes.
“It’s been very successful,” said a spokeswoman. Kate, 30, had been due to follow in the footsteps of Prince Charles, Prince Harry and her husband by completing deals at the ICAP event.
It is fundraising for 23 charities, including The Art Room, of which she is patron, and Tusk, of which William is patron. The original plan was for Kate to be shown around the trading floors and meet brokers. ICAP has raised more than £89 million for charity through its global events.
The Earl and Countess of Wessex today revealed their joy at Kate’s pregnancy.
Sophie said: “It is the most perfect end to an amazing year.”
Prince Edward, who was accompanying his wife to the ICAP event, said: “We are thrilled by the news.” But he said they had “deep, deep sympathy with Catherine”. “We know friends who suffered exactly the same... we wouldn’t wish that on anybody at all.”
