Kate Middleton and Prince William begin three-day UK train tour

Nicola Sturgeon launched an incendiary attack on the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge today as she revealed the Royal were warned about the cross-border Covid travel ban ahead of their whistle-stop tour. 

The Scottish leader said she had told the Palace it would be breaking stringent Covid restrictions if Prince William and Kate Middleton travelled north of the border for their morale boosting tour. 

At a daily briefing today, the First Minister took a snipe at the couple as she made clear the trip breached travel rules.  

She said the Scottish Government ‘made sure that the Royal Household were aware’ of Scotland’s restrictions. 

But the Royals seemingly defied the warning as they arrived in Edinburgh this morning to the sound of bagpipes serenading them with Christmas songs before meeting workers at a Scottish Ambulance Service hub. 

The pair are attempting to spread festive cheer to frontline workers ahead of the Christmas holidays on their 48-hour train tour.

Ms Sturgeon, however, seemed less than impressed when she told today’s briefing: ‘The Scottish Government was advised about the intention to visit, and we made sure that the Royal Household were aware, as you would expect, of the restrictions in place in Scotland so that could inform both the decision and the planning of the visit.’ 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took some festive cheer with them on their royal train tour of the country, as they met delighted youngsters at the Holy Trinity Church of England First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took some festive cheer with them on their royal train tour of the country, as they met delighted youngsters at the Holy Trinity Church of England First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed

The Duchess of Cambridge met youngsters who wore antlers and Santa hats for the visit

The Duchess of Cambridge met youngsters who wore antlers and Santa hats for the visit

As a treat for the Berwick school's 175 pupils, Kensington Palace arranged for Rent A Reindeer to take three animals to the site

As a treat for the Berwick school’s 175 pupils, Kensington Palace arranged for Rent A Reindeer to take three animals to the site

As local saxophone group The Earl Grey Saxes played Christmas tunes, including Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer, William and Kate chatted to pupils and teachers in the playground

As local saxophone group The Earl Grey Saxes played Christmas tunes, including Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer, William and Kate chatted to pupils and teachers in the playground

The Duke and Duchess shared a laugh and a joke as they left Holy Trinity Church of England First School in Berwick upon Tweed

The Duke and Duchess shared a laugh and a joke as they left Holy Trinity Church of England First School in Berwick upon Tweed

The Duke and Duchess shared a laugh and a joke as they left Holy Trinity Church of England First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed

William was chipped at the Holy Trinity First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed where Kensington Palace had arranged for Rent a Reindeer

William was chipped at the Holy Trinity First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed where Kensington Palace had arranged for Rent a Reindeer

The royal couple are spending the next couple of days paying tribute in person to the work of individuals and organisations that have gone above and beyond in response to the Covid crisis. Their first visit was to the Scottish Ambulance Service response centre in Newbridge

The royal couple are spending the next couple of days paying tribute in person to the work of individuals and organisations that have gone above and beyond in response to the Covid crisis. Their first visit was to the Scottish Ambulance Service response centre in Newbridge

A delighted Kate waved to fans outside Berwick-upon-Tweed Station on the first day of their royal tour

A delighted Kate waved to fans outside Berwick-upon-Tweed Station on the first day of their royal tour 

After travelling overnight from London Euston, the duke was the first to step out of the Royal Claret-coloured carriages, followed by Kate in a Liberty print face covering, with a matching blue coat

The Duchess of Cambridge last night penned a note of thanks on boards at Euston Station in London

The Duchess of Cambridge last night penned a note of thanks on boards at Euston Station in London

William wished transport workers a Merry Christmas as he thanked them for their service throughout the pandemic

William wished transport workers a Merry Christmas as he thanked them for their service throughout the pandemic 

The duchess donned a Liberty print face covering and matching woolen blue coat

William was wearing a navy coat and matching mask and a tartan scarf

The duchess donned a Liberty print face covering and matching woolen blue coat while William was wearing a navy coat and matching mask and a tartan scarf

William and Kate left Euston Station on board the Royal Train (pictured) last night for the first of nine stops on their whirlwind 48 hour, 1,250-mile tour across England, Scotland and Wales

William and Kate left Euston Station on board the Royal Train (pictured) last night for the first of nine stops on their whirlwind 48 hour, 1,250-mile tour across England, Scotland and Wales 

The Royal whistle-stop tour 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are embarking on a 48-hour festive morale-boosting tour of the country by royal train. 

But details of the engagements have been kept secret until the couple’s arrival so as not to encourage crowds. 

This is what they have done so far:  

Sunday, 11pm: Depart Euston railway station, London

Monday, 9.39am: Arrive at Edinburgh Waverley Station

9.50am: Visit to the Scottish Ambulance Service in Newbridge

12pm: Visit pupils at Holy Trinity First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed

The royal couple are paying tribute in person to the individuals and organisations that have gone above and beyond in response to the Covid crisis.  

Ms Sturgeon told today’s briefing: ‘The Royal visit is a matter for the Royal household and the arrangements around it, and any questions about those arrangements, should be directed to the Royal household. 

‘Any more questions on that should be directed to the Royal household.’

The Earl and Countess of Strathearn, as they are titled while carrying out official engagements in Scotland, arrived at Edinburgh Waverley after spending the night in the Royal train. 

Among the party waiting to greet them was the Lord Provost of Edinburgh’s official piper, Louise Marshall, who piped the Royal couple through the concourse playing a medley of Christmas hits on the pipes.   

The Royal couple’s first engagement of the whistle-stop tour of the UK was to staff at one of the Scottish Ambulance Service’s nerve centres at Newbridge, outside Edinburgh.

William, dressed in a dark blue coat and tartan scarf, and Kate, wearing a blue Catherine Walker coat and carrying a bag by Scottish designer Strathberry, thanked staff for their incredible efforts in coping with their demanding jobs while many were affected by personal Covid tragedies. 

They chatted with staff and heard deeply moving accounts of how many of them have been affected personally during the crisis, while continuing to provide vital first response cover across the country. 

During their visit, it was announced that the Royal couple would become joint patrons of NHS Charities Together, the charity which has worked tirelessly to provide hospitals and emergency workers with vital PPE equipment.

The SAS received funding from NHS Charities Together, a group of 240 NHS charities, which has been spent on indoor and outdoor wellbeing spaces for staff, as well as wellbeing packs with information booklets and reusable water bottles.

Who is ‘The Doodle Boy’?: The schoolboy, 11, whose classroom boredom sparked an international book deal 

Joe Whale, better known as the Doodle Boy, created this artwork for the Cambridge's trip

Joe Whale, better known as the Doodle Boy, created this artwork for the Cambridge’s trip

Kate and William’s trip has been immortalised in a stylised drawing by schoolboy artist Joe Whale, better known as the Doodle Boy, who has found worldwide fame with his creative efforts.

The youngster, who was approached by the Cambridges’ office to create the artwork, launched a YouTube channel during the coronavirus pandemic to teach others how to doodle.

The 11-year-old was sent to an after-school art class after he got told off for doodling when he was bored during lessons. 

But his teacher was so impressed with his work, she asked his parents if she could put it on Instagram where he has since amassed more than 108,000 followers. 

Last year, a local restaurant hired him to create a mural on the wall of their dining room. 

In June, a US publisher asked him to illustrate a series of children’s books with the first being published next year.

Prince William spoke at length with some of the paramedics about how the additional strains of working under the threat of Covid had impacted on their mental wellbeing.

He and Kate also heard from paramedic Alistair Matson(MATSON), 54, had to cope with his father falling sick and later dying in hospital during the pandemic. Mr Matson said: ‘It was very emotional talking to the Prince about losing my father. He was very anxious to hear how we managed to cope with the mental strains of our job.

‘I was helped considerably by the great sense of cameraderie at my work. There was never any rush to come back and they have been like another family to me. It was really heartening to see the Royal couple here today acknowledging what we do and their thanks means a lot to us.’

His colleague, John Kane, 59, told the Royal couple how he spent three weeks in an induced coma in Edinburgh’s Western General Hospital after contracting the virus. ‘I had to be placed on a ventilator for three weeks and placed in an induced coma. It was a terrifying time and the recovery has been slow, but again the SAS has helped that. The Prince was particularly interested in how we manage the mental wellbeing of our own staff.’

It also emerged during their visit that the couple had sent a special bouquet of flowers to the family of a veteran paramedic, who died last month after he re-enlisted in April four years after his retirement. 

Rod Moore, from Falkirk, died aged 63 after contracting coronavirus. His funeral was due to take place during the royal visit. A SAS spokesman said: ‘I know that Rod’s family greatly appreciated the flowers sent on behalf of the Royal Family. It was a lovely gesture.’

The couple also made a particular point of thanking the cleaning staff at the unit, telling cleaner Ellen Reeder, 65, that she was ‘one of the most important people in the whole organisation, keeping everything together.’

Afterwards, Ms Reeder, 65, said: ‘It was such an honour for me to meet them. They kept it secret until this morning, which is just as well or I would have got tongue-tied speaking to them. That has really made my day. In fact, I think it has made everyone’s day here to get that appreciation from the Royals.. I am a huge fan.’

There was a fun twist at lunchtime at the Holy Trinity First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed where, as a treat for the children, Kensington Palace arranged for Rent a Reindeer to bring three animals – Chaz, Crackers and her six-month-old calf Echols – to the school. 

Kate and William also thanked teachers for their efforts to support learning during in recent months. 

Local saxophone group The Earl Grey Saxes played Christmas tunes, including Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, as the school’s 175 pupils waved and sang as the royal couple arrived. Some wore antlers on their heads and some were in Santa hats for the visit.

William and Kate sanitised their hands as they entered the school grounds, a short drive from the Berwick railway station.

After the visit, headteacher Nicholas Shaw said: ‘It has been fantastic and the children loved it.

‘We feel honoured to have been chosen and appreciate they are taking the time to think about teachers and the work that has been going on in schools.

‘It has been a challenge during lockdown, a lot of new skills have been learned. We stayed open throughout for children of key workers and vulnerable children.’

Rent a Reindeer owner George Richardson brought Chaz, Crackers and Echols for the visit, and told William and Kate about caring for them and how coronavirus had affected his business.

Mr Richardson, who is based in Cold Hesledon, County Durham, said the booking by the palace had been ‘top secret’.

He said: ‘We got a phone call out of the blue two weeks ago, they asked us to bring a reindeer for the royal visit and we were happy to oblige.

‘We brought these three as a group, although Chaz is not the dad … he is the uncle. Mum and baby go with him and they are a nice group. This was baby’s first outing and she took it in her stride.’ 

William and Kate left Euston Station on board the Royal Train last night for the first of nine stops on their whirlwind 48 hour, 1,250-mile tour across England, Scotland and Wales. 

Before they left London, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, both 38, penned a personal message of thanks for transport workers on a London Underground service information board. 

The message read: ‘Thank you to all transport workers everywhere for keeping the country moving throughout this difficult year. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas! Catherine. William’   

It was a royal departure like no other and even featured a special performance from 80s pop star Shakin’ Stevens who performed his perennial festive favourite, ‘Merry Christmas Everyone’ for transport workers at the station.  

The pair put on an animated display as they left the school this afternoon, where they had treated children to a visit from some reindeer

The pair put on an animated display as they left the school this afternoon, where they had treated children to a visit from some reindeer 

During the first visit of their Royal Train Tour across the country, it was announced that The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will become Joint Patrons of NHS Charities Together

During the first visit of their Royal Train Tour across the country, it was announced that The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will become Joint Patrons of NHS Charities Together

The duke and duchess thanked the staff for their incredible efforts during the coronavirus pandemic. The visit coincided with the announcement that William and Kate have become joint patrons of NHS Charities Together

The duke and duchess thanked the staff for their incredible efforts during the coronavirus pandemic. The visit coincided with the announcement that William and Kate have become joint patrons of NHS Charities Together

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will meet the Queen for a heart-warming family engagement at the end of a nationwide 'Christmas Express' tour on the royal train, starting today

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will meet the Queen for a heart-warming family engagement at the end of a nationwide ‘Christmas Express’ tour on the royal train, starting today

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge surprised primary school children with a Christmas treat of a reindeer visit

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge surprised primary school children with a Christmas treat of a reindeer visit

William and Kate went to Holy Trinity First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed, where they thanked teachers for their efforts to support learning during the coronavirus crisis

William and Kate went to Holy Trinity First School in Berwick-upon-Tweed, where they thanked teachers for their efforts to support learning during the coronavirus crisis

The duke and duchess heard from the teachers about how they had adapted their operations to provide online learning during lockdown, and put in place measures to allow pupils to safely return to school

The duke and duchess heard from the teachers about how they had adapted their operations to provide online learning during lockdown, and put in place measures to allow pupils to safely return to school

Under rainy skies and in a chilly northerly wind, the school's 175 pupils - some wearing antlers and some in Santa hats - waved and sang as William and Kate arrived

Under rainy skies and in a chilly northerly wind, the school’s 175 pupils – some wearing antlers and some in Santa hats – waved and sang as William and Kate arrived 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with headteacher Nicholas Shaw and deputy head Jill Jeffrey

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with headteacher Nicholas Shaw and deputy head Jill Jeffrey

Kensington Palace posted this image of the pair on its Instagram account, using the hashtag 'Royal Train Tour'

Kensington Palace posted this image of the pair on its Instagram account, using the hashtag ‘Royal Train Tour’

The first official engagement of the day was to meet with frontline workers from the Scottish Ambulance Service in Newbridge, Edinburgh

The first official engagement of the day was to meet with frontline workers from the Scottish Ambulance Service in Newbridge, Edinburgh

William donned a tartan scarf for the occasion while Kate wore a floral face mask at Waverley station this morning

William donned a tartan scarf for the occasion while Kate wore a floral face mask at Waverley station this morning 

The Duchess paired her blue coat and mask with long black velvet boots, leather gloves and a smart black clutch

The Duchess paired her blue coat and mask with long black velvet boots, leather gloves and a smart black clutch 

The couple stopped to chat with ambulance workers in Edinburgh, who have worked throughout the pandemic

The couple stopped to chat with ambulance workers in Edinburgh, who have worked throughout the pandemic 

They pulled into Edinburgh Waverley station to the sounds of a piper playing Christmas songs including Jingle Bells and Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Piper Louise Marshall awaits the arrival of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

They pulled into Edinburgh Waverley station to the sounds of a piper playing Christmas songs including Jingle Bells and Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

The second stop of the day was a lunchtime visit to A school in Berwick-upon-Tweed

The second stop of the day was a lunchtime visit to A school in Berwick-upon-Tweed

The pair listened intently to first responders at the ambulance service first thing this morning

The pair listened intently to first responders at the ambulance service first thing this morning 

Details of the engagements have been kept secret until the couple's arrival so as not to encourage crowds

Details of the engagements have been kept secret until the couple’s arrival so as not to encourage crowds

The couple removed their masks as they stepped out of Berwick-upon-Tweed Station

The couple removed their masks as they stepped out of Berwick-upon-Tweed Station

The duke and duchess received a rock and roll send-off on Sunday when Shakin’ Stevens serenaded them before they boarded the royal train.

The singer, known for a string of hits in the 1980s, sang his festive smash-hit single Merry Christmas Everyone for the couple and a group of transport workers.

The track topped the charts during Christmas 1985 and was picked by William and Kate as the song they wanted to hear.

The Duchess, wearing an Alexander McQueen coat and tartan scarf, tapped her foot and swayed to the music as they waved to passengers from a balcony.

Stevens, 72, said he was ‘over the moon’ to be playing for the Duke and Duchess, revealing that it was the first time he had played for royalty in his long career.

‘I’m loving it, it was lovely to be invited,’ he said. ‘And it was them who chose the song. Over the moon.’

Stevens said the Cambridges were ‘certainly fans’ of his festive hit, adding: ‘They picked it!’

Before climbing aboard the royal train, the couple took time out to meet transport workers at the station to hear about their experiences of working throughout the pandemic.

William told Orson Parris, a network traffic controller for Transport for London: ‘Fingers crossed 2021 gets things back to normal.’ 

And the Duke told Alero Abbey, TfL area manager for Green Park and Euston: ‘It’s moments like this when people really appreciate what you do every day. Suddenly we all know what you do and that you do a really good job.’

Network Rail staff altered the departure boards for the occasion, changing Wolverhampton to Warmerhampton, Coventry to Coventry Carol and Northampton to Northpolehamton.

William and Kate were keen to personally pass on their thanks to Transport for London, Network Rail and train operating companies for everything they have done to keep the capital running throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The pair stepped out of the Royal Claret-coloured carriages to cheerful festive tunes

The pair stepped out of the Royal Claret-coloured carriages to cheerful festive tunes

William looked dapper in his navy coat and brown desert boots, accessorized with a tartan scarf in homage to Scotland

Kate was typically chic in her royal blue coat and velvet boots

William looked dapper in his navy coat and brown desert boots, accessorized with a tartan scarf in homage to Scotland while Kate was typically chic in her royal blue coat and velvet boots

Despite travelling on a train throughout the night, Kate's hair was impeccable as she arrived in Edinburgh this morning

Despite travelling on a train throughout the night, Kate’s hair was impeccable as she arrived in Edinburgh this morning

William and Kate met the ambulance staff in Newbridge, near Edinburgh, during their first engagement after they set off on their 1,250-mile morale-boosting festive trip on the royal train

William and Kate met the ambulance staff in Newbridge, near Edinburgh, during their first engagement after they set off on their 1,250-mile morale-boosting festive trip on the royal train

The couple wrapped up in woolen coats as they arrived in chilly Edinburgh this morning

The couple wrapped up in woolen coats as they arrived in chilly Edinburgh this morning

William put an arm around his wife as they walked into the ambulance station in Newbridge near Edinburgh

William put an arm around his wife as they walked into the ambulance station in Newbridge near Edinburgh 

The pair chatted animatedly to frontline workers, as it was announced they had become patrons of the service

The pair chatted animatedly to frontline workers, as it was announced they had become patrons of the service

Kensington Palace said William and Kate's visit on Monday had added poignancy as it falls on the day the Scottish Ambulance Service remembers a colleague lost to Covid-19

Kensington Palace said William and Kate’s visit on Monday had added poignancy as it falls on the day the Scottish Ambulance Service remembers a colleague lost to Covid-19

William and Kate carried out their first official engagement after setting off on the tour, meeting frontline workers from the Scottish Ambulance Service in Newbridge, Edinburgh

William and Kate carried out their first official engagement after setting off on the tour, meeting frontline workers from the Scottish Ambulance Service in Newbridge, Edinburgh

The duchess, in a Liberty print face covering, was dressed in a smart blue coat and black gloves, while William was wearing a navy coat and a tartan scarf

The duchess, in a Liberty print face covering, was dressed in a smart blue coat and black gloves, while William was wearing a navy coat and a tartan scarf

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge waved to onlookers as they arrive by train at Edinburgh Waverley Station

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge waved to onlookers as they arrive by train at Edinburgh Waverley Station

It is believed the trip is Kate's first official journey by royal train, despite having been a member of the monarchy for almost a decade, while the duke has used it a number of times

It is believed the trip is Kate’s first official journey by royal train, despite having been a member of the monarchy for almost a decade, while the duke has used it a number of times

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were pictured in the capital after arriving in Scotland early this morning

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were pictured in the capital after arriving in Scotland early this morning

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they arrived at at Edinburgh Waverley Station early this morning

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they arrived at at Edinburgh Waverley Station early this morning

They were welcomed to the city on the platform and chatted briefly, before thanking the piper and leaving the station to make their way to their first engagement

They were welcomed to the city on the platform and chatted briefly, before thanking the piper and leaving the station to make their way to their first engagement

The couple travelled overnight after setting off on Sunday evening from London’s Euston station on the 1,250-mile, three-day tour

The couple travelled overnight after setting off on Sunday evening from London’s Euston station on the 1,250-mile, three-day tour

Their Royal Highnesses are travelling on the Royal Train (pictured) between Sunday and Tuesday, making stops in England, Scotland and Wales in line with government guidance

Their Royal Highnesses are travelling on the Royal Train (pictured) between Sunday and Tuesday, making stops in England, Scotland and Wales in line with government guidance

The trip has been organised so the couple can thank frontline workers, volunteers, care home staff, teachers, schoolchildren and young people and hear about their experiences and sacrifices, as well as the inspirational work they have done throughout this life-changing year.

A source said: ‘Their Royal Highnesses want to pass on the nation’s sincere thanks and gratitude for all of their efforts to keep people safe and keep the country going.’

It is believed the trip is Kate’s first official journey by royal train, despite having been a member of the monarchy for almost a decade, while the duke has used it a number of times. 

Details of the engagements have been kept secret until the couple’s arrival so as not to encourage crowds. 

But a series of ‘fun’ surprises have been organised at each of the couple’s stops as they celebrate community spirit and demonstrate the impact of the public’s generosity this year, by showcasing organisations and initiatives that have been supported by community relief funds, including NHS Charities Together.

The couple also plan to showcase the UK’s arts, heritage and live performance sector, which have been decimated by Covid and the resulting lockdowns.

There will be a number of festive performances across the three days by local artists, and visits to highlight the work done by the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

The mini tour will end with the William and Kate meeting with the Queen, Charles and Camilla for a rare photo call together. The retired Prince Philip, 99, will not be present.

One of the highlights of the trip will be the couple’s arrival at each stop on the Queen’s distinctive burgundy-liveried Royal Train.

William and Kate left Euston Station on board the Royal Train last night for the first of nine stops on their whirlwind 48 hour, 1,250-mile tour across England, Scotland and Wales first thing in the morning

William and Kate left Euston Station on board the Royal Train last night for the first of nine stops on their whirlwind 48 hour, 1,250-mile tour across England, Scotland and Wales first thing in the morning

The couple were serenaded by 80s pop star Shakin' Stevens, 72, as they boarded the royal train for their first UK tour with a very festive send-off. The singer said he was 'over the moon' to have his first ever performance to royalty

The couple were serenaded by 80s pop star Shakin’ Stevens, 72, as they boarded the royal train for their first UK tour with a very festive send-off. The singer said he was ‘over the moon’ to have his first ever performance to royalty

The Duchess, wearing an Alexander McQueen coat and tartan scarf, tapped her foot and swayed to the music as they waved to passengers from a balcony

The Duchess, wearing an Alexander McQueen coat and tartan scarf, tapped her foot and swayed to the music as they waved to passengers from a balcony

Before climbing aboard the royal train, the couple took time out to meet transport workers at the station to hear about their experiences of working throughout the pandemic

Before climbing aboard the royal train, the couple took time out to meet transport workers at the station to hear about their experiences of working throughout the pandemic

A source said: 'Their Royal Highnesses want to pass on the nation's sincere thanks and gratitude for all of their efforts to keep people safe and keep the country going'

A source said: ‘Their Royal Highnesses want to pass on the nation’s sincere thanks and gratitude for all of their efforts to keep people safe and keep the country going’

After enjoying a performance by Shakin' Stevens and speaking with railway workers, the couple boarded the train on the first leg of their journey. Details of the engagements will be kept secret until the couple's arrival so as not to encourage crowds

After enjoying a performance by Shakin’ Stevens and speaking with railway workers, the couple boarded the train on the first leg of their journey. Details of the engagements will be kept secret until the couple’s arrival so as not to encourage crowds

The Duke and Duchess applaud Shakin' Stevens as he sings Merry Christmas Everyone

Stevens, 72, said he was 'over the moon' to be playing for the Duke and Duchess, revealing that it was the first time he had played for royalty in his long career

Stevens, 72, said he was ‘over the moon’ to be playing for the Duke and Duchess, revealing that it was the first time he had played for royalty in his long career

Before they departed, the couple took time out to meet transport workers at the station to hear about their experiences of working throughout the pandemic

Before they departed, the couple took time out to meet transport workers at the station to hear about their experiences of working throughout the pandemic

Network Rail staff altered the departure boards for the occasion, changing Wolverhampton to Warmerhampton, Coventry to Coventry Carol and Northampton to Northpolehamton

Network Rail staff altered the departure boards for the occasion, changing Wolverhampton to Warmerhampton, Coventry to Coventry Carol and Northampton to Northpolehamton

Permission to travel on the nine-carriage train has to be given by the Queen personally, and she is said to be very much behind her grandson and granddaughter-in-law's 'wonderful' idea

Permission to travel on the nine-carriage train has to be given by the Queen personally, and she is said to be very much behind her grandson and granddaughter-in-law’s ‘wonderful’ idea

One of the highlights of the trip will be the couple's arrival at each stop on the Queen's distinctive burgundy-liveried Royal Train

One of the highlights of the trip will be the couple’s arrival at each stop on the Queen’s distinctive burgundy-liveried Royal Train

All aboard the Kate and Wills Express! What it’s like to travel on the ‘palace on wheels’ with fillets of sole and crème caramel – and VERY prompt drivers

Mile-for-mile, it’s the Royals’ most expensive form of transport, with accounts in September showing that it made only three outings in 2019-20. Queen Elizabeth is pictured on board the train in 1964, with Prince Edward on her lap and Prince Andrew sitting opposite

Mile-for-mile, it’s the Royals’ most expensive form of transport, with accounts in September showing that it made only three outings in 2019-20. Queen Elizabeth is pictured on board the train in 1964, with Prince Edward on her lap and Prince Andrew sitting opposite

By Emily Andrews Royal Editor for the Mail on Sunday

Travelling on the Royal Train is considered a significant honour afforded by the Queen. 

Permission to travel on the nine-carriage train has to be granted by the Queen. She is the train’s prime passenger, using it to travel overnight to engagements in the north of England, Scotland or Wales.

The idea dates from 1842. Prince Albert persuaded a 23-year-old Queen Victoria to become the first Royal to travel by rail when she took a train from Slough, then the closest station to Windsor Castle, to London Paddington. 

Victoria saw travelling the country as her duty and thus a Royal Train was designed to look like a palace on wheels, with the carriages decorated in 23-carat gold paint and decked out in silks and satins.

Electric lights were added in the 1890s, as well as an on-board toilet, which Victoria refused to use, preferring to have the train stop for bathroom breaks every few hours.

In 1977, the year of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, a single set of Royal Train carriages was formed for the first time and has remained in service ever since – replacing the 1941 vehicles used by George VI. 

The locomotives haul freight when not on Royal duty. William and Kate will sleep in single beds during their two nights aboard, and dine in a 12-seater supper car with a Formica table – a far cry from the grandeur of the Victorian era. 

In the past, the Royal Train menu has comprised chilled minted pea soup, fillets of sole and crème caramel.

There are no showers in the suite, only a bath with a marker line to stop it being over-filled. Staff include a steward and footmen, while Kate’s hairdresser will also travel with them on this journey.

When the carriages are off-duty, as they are for much of the year, the train is kept in a siding at a secret location to ensure security.

Mile-for-mile, it’s the Royals’ most expensive form of transport, with accounts in September showing that it made only three outings in 2019-20. 

Two of these were for Prince Charles, who ran up a £20,822 bill for a return journey from Kemble, near his Gloucestershire home, to Carlisle. At the time, a Palace aide said the train provided effective and efficient transport and reduced security costs.

It was once suggested that Charles had secreted the then Lady Diana Spencer on board for a night-time tryst in sidings in Wiltshire. The story was untrue and Diana said: ‘I’ve never been near the train, let alone in the middle of the night!’

The most prestigious job in British railways is that of Royal driver. Among their tasks is to stop the train door perfectly in line with the red carpet on the platform. Drivers also pride themselves on getting to any destination within 15 seconds of the given arrival time.

When Her Majesty invited Meghan Markle to join her on an overnight journey less than a month after her marriage to Prince Harry, it was a way of publicly welcoming her into the Royal Family.

While the train is used primarily as a means of travel, there is also room to catch up on work, as Queen Elizabeth demonstrates, above, during a journey in 2002

While the train is used primarily as a means of travel, there is also room to catch up on work, as Queen Elizabeth demonstrates, above, during a journey in 2002 

Over the next few days, William and Kate, will travel 1,250 miles and undertake working visits meeting NHS staff, volunteers, care home staff, teachers, schoolchildren and young people to hear about their experiences, sacrifices and the work they have done throughout this challenging year. 

The couple will also pass on the nation’s sincere thanks and gratitude for all of their efforts to keep people safe and keep the country going.

Ahead of their trip, 10-year-old British artist, Joe Whale – known as The Doodle Boy, has created an illustration to bring the journey to life.

Many of the engagements undertaken by the Cambridges will celebrate community spirit and demonstrate the impact of the public’s generosity this year, by showcasing organisations and initiatives that have been supported by community relief funds, including NHS Charities Together.

Their Royal Highnesses’ visits will also showcase the UK’s arts, heritage and live performance sector, which has been supported throughout the pandemic by the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund. 

There will be a number of festive performances across the three days by local artists, celebrating the inspiring work of the organisations and projects the Duke and Duchess are visiting.

Queen Victoria was the first reigning British sovereign to use the Royal Train, in June 1842. 

The journey was from Slough (at that time the closest train station to Windsor Castle) to London Paddington. 

Royal guests have to make do with small single beds. There are no showers - instead there are rather dated-looking 70s-style baths with a marker line to stop them being over-filled

Royal guests have to make do with small single beds. There are no showers – instead there are rather dated-looking 70s-style baths with a marker line to stop them being over-filled

Although the train looks grand from the outside, its carriage are far more spartan than anyone could imagine

Although the train looks grand from the outside, its carriage are far more spartan than anyone could imagine

There is, however, a 12-steamer supper car with a Formica table

There is, however, a 12-steamer supper car with a Formica table

Ahead of their trip, 10-year-old British artist, Joe Whale - known as The Doodle Boy, has created an illustration to bring the journey to life

Ahead of their trip, 10-year-old British artist, Joe Whale – known as The Doodle Boy, has created an illustration to bring the journey to life

Queen Victoria was the first reigning British sovereign to use the Royal Train, in June 1842. The journey was from Slough - at that time the closest train station to Windsor Castle - to London, Paddington

Queen Victoria was the first reigning British sovereign to use the Royal Train, in June 1842. The journey was from Slough – at that time the closest train station to Windsor Castle – to London, Paddington

In the year of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee a single set of ‘Royal Train’ carriages was formed for the first time and has remained in service ever since. 

The locomotives that power the train are capable of speeds up to 125mph, but are restricted to 100mph when on royal duty. 

The Royal Train was used just five times in 2018, costing on average £22,000 a time. 

The Queen, 94, used it just twice in 2018, to Chester with Meghan Markle, 39, costing £29,714, and again in March 2019 when she visited the west of England and returned to Windsor, which cost the public purse £21,230.

Prince Charles, 72, the only other senior royal permitted to use the Royal Train until now, made three trips on it. 

A spokesperson 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.’

The Queen, 94, used the Royal Train just twice in 2018, once to Chester with Meghan Markle, 39, in June (pictured) costing £29,714

The Queen, 94, used the Royal Train just twice in 2018, once to Chester with Meghan Markle, 39, in June (pictured) costing £29,714

Prince William and his father Prince Charles arriving at Bangor Station on the Royal Train in 2003 for a visit to Wales in the run-up to his 21st birthday

Prince William and his father Prince Charles arriving at Bangor Station on the Royal Train in 2003 for a visit to Wales in the run-up to his 21st birthday

This year the Queen and Prince Philip, who traditionally spend the festive season with close family at Sandringham in Norfolk, will spend Christmas ‘quietly’ at Windsor Castle. 

It is understood they will not form a ‘bubble’ with any other family members.

It means the couple face spending Christmas Day without any of their four children for the first time since 1949, when the then Princess Elizabeth left a one-year-old Charles in the UK so she could be with Prince Philip in Malta.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are likely to spend Christmas either at Anmer Hall, in Norfolk, or at the Middleton family home in Berkshire.

Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall will spend Christmas at Highgrove, in Gloucestershire, although they expect to see the Queen and Prince Philip at Windsor at some point over the festive season. Camilla will also spend time with her family.

Prince Edward, the Countess of Wessex and their children live at Bagshot Park, Surrey, while Princess Anne and her family live at Gatcombe Park, in Gloucestershire. Prince Andrew is the only one of the Queen’s four children who lives in Windsor.

The Queen won’t attend a church service on Christmas Day in order to prevent crowds gathering but is expected to worship privately in Windsor Castle’s private chapel.

How often is it used, who by and what for? Q&A on the Royal Train 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are setting off on a festive morale-boosting tour around the country on the Royal Train.

– The royals have their own train?

Yes. The present Royal Train came into service in 1977 to mark the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, but the royal family have had their own dedicated train since Queen Victoria’s reign.

– What does it look like?

Its livery is a pristine, highly polished burgundy known as Royal Claret, emblazoned with royal crests, with black coach lining and grey roof.

It has nine carriages – but not all of them are always used.

– Is the inside very luxurious?

Surprisingly not. The royal train is more functional than palatial and its furnishings are outdated.

Royal aides once described it as being fitted with bathroom fixtures ‘you could find in Homebase or B&Q’ and the decor as ‘very G-Plan’ which was popular in the 1960s and 70s.

In 2002, Buckingham Palace officials allowed journalists a rare glimpse in an attempt to destroy the perception that it was as lavish as the Orient Express.

– Who uses it?

Normally only the most senior royals – the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh before he retired, and the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

– Anyone else?

The corgis used to accompany the Queen – and also the Queen Mother – onboard for journeys to Sandringham or Balmoral.

There is also space for royal aides and servants.

– What is it used for?

For official engagements, and for longer journeys around the UK such as to Scotland or Norfolk, especially when the Queen’s children were young.

It allows the royals to travel overnight and arrive rested ready to carry out a full day of engagements.

The monarch toured Britain on the train for her Golden Jubilee in 2002.

– Does the Queen have her own carriage?

Yes. It’s a private 75ft long air-conditioned and electrically heated saloon carriage which contains a bedroom with a single bed, a sitting room, a desk for working on the go, dining quarters – and bathroom complete with a full-sized bath.

– What about the other carriages?

The Duke of Edinburgh has a saloon carriage of a similar design but with a kitchen, green curtains, matching chair cushions and a brown carpet.

Scottish landscapes and Victorian prints of earlier rail journeys hang in both saloons.

– And the Prince of Wales?

Heir to the throne Charles has his own lounge car with a bedroom, bathroom and study with a small writing desk and a blue and white floral patterned sofa which matches the curtain fabric.

The other carriages include dining cars, a general purpose saloon for senior staff with sleeping quarters, a sleeping car for junior staff with bunk beds and a carriage for escort staff and maintenance workers.

What about food?

A royal chef usually joins the train, with menus meticulously planned.

– How often is the Royal Train used?

It depends on the royal diary.

Only three trips – two by the Prince of Wales and one by the Queen – were taken on the Royal Train in the 2019/2020 financial year, but the total cost was more than £63,000.

– How much?

The cost – met by the taxpayer – has long been controversial and the train was nearly scrapped in 2013 when it was feared the rolling stock would have to be replaced.

During the Golden Jubilee year of 2002, the train’s journeys cost £872,000.

Its service contract is also an additional £300,000 a year and it is maintained by the German firm DB Cargo UK.

– How much does it cost per mile?

It depends on the journey. In 2017, an £18,317 trip by Charles from London to Cwmbran cost, according to calculations by the PA news agency, £130.84 per mile.

A standard anytime rail ticket for the same journey at the time cost just £1.30 per mile.

– Can’t the royal family catch a normal train?

They sometimes do. The Queen usually travels First Class to Sandringham for her winter break.

– So why is there still a Royal Train?

Royal aides believe it offers the best option for safety, security, efficiency and minimum disruption to others.

The Queen also likes it. It is her preferred mode of transport for its privacy and convenience, and it removes the need for an exceptionally early start.

It often travels overnight so as to not to slow up other trains, plus accommodation does not need to be arranged for the royals, and, unlike helicopters, it can run in bad weather.

– Is this William and Kate’s first time on the royal train?

Yes for Kate, but not for William. It will be their first time on the train together.

As a child, William travelled on it to Balmoral, and on the day of his mother Diana, Princess of Wales’ funeral in 1997, William, Charles, Prince Harry and the Spencer family made the journey from London to the princess’s ancestral home Althorp by Royal Train for her burial.

In 2003, William also journeyed overnight on the train to Bangor with his father to carry out a day of engagements in north Wales ahead of his 21st birthday.

– Who else has used it?

The Duchess of Sussex accompanied the Queen to Cheshire on the royal train in 2018 for what was her first joint royal engagement with the monarch.

– Can I travel on the royal train?

No. It’s for royals only.

Dignitaries are sometimes allowed to use it. Cherie Blair hosted a trip on the train for the wives of the leaders of the G8 group of nations in 1998.

– What about the engine?

The royal train is pulled by one of two Class 67 locomotives – 67005 – The Queen’s Messenger and 67006 – Royal Sovereign, both decorated in royal claret livery.

They are run on environmentally friendly bio-fuel made from waste vegetable oil.

A third Class 67 – 67026 – Diamond Jubilee – which features silver livery, a union flag and a Diamond Jubilee logo was used during the 2012 celebrations.

– So it’s not pulled by a steam locomotive?

Only every now and then for special occasions.

– Weren’t there engines called Prince William and Prince Henry?

Prince William and Prince Henry – named after William and his brother Harry – were a pair of Royal Class 47 locomotives which used to pull the Royal Train, but they were retired in 2004.

– When was the first royal train introduced?

A dedicated carriage was built for the royal family in 1840, with the Dowager Queen Adelaide, the widow of William IV, becoming the first to ride in it.

– What about Queen Victoria?

Victorians believed that driving on fast trains could send you insane.

But Queen Victoria was finally persuaded to travel by rail in 1842 went on a 25-minute passage on the royal train from Slough to Paddington with Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who designed Great Western Railway, riding on the footplate.

– Was she converted to rail travel?

Yes. The 23-year-old wrote in her diary that the journey was ‘delightful and so quick’.

By 1869, she had commissioned a set of private carriages, decorated in luxurious blue silk and 23-carat gold like a palace on wheels.

– Have there been any controversial journeys?

In 2000, a royal bodyguard discharged his gun on the train while the Queen was sleeping. The bullet hole can still be seen on a table in the staff dining car.

In 1980, a front page story claimed that a young Lady Diana Spencer had been sneaked aboard the royal train at night to be with Charles, three months before their engagement.

Charles, Diana and her mother always insisted the tale was false.

source: dailymail.co.uk