The Princess of Wales has been forced to follow royal protocol during a visit to Wales alongside her husband, Prince William.
Catherine and William travelled to Powys to honour the Welsh county’s remarkable record of community service in the lead-up to St David’s Day.
The royal couple halted their vehicle in the downpour to spend time with the gathered crowds, staying longer than scheduled to greet those who had waited to see them.
During their discussions with royal fans, the Princess of Wales was forced to decline a fan’s request due to protocol.
The Princess of Wales was forced to follow royal protocol during her visit to Wales | PA
Footage showed a person asking Catherine for an autograph but she replied: “I can’t sign it, I’m so sorry.”
Instead, the princess offered him a handshake and a hug before meeting others further down the line.
Like other royals, Catherine is bound by royal protocol to not give out her signature due to the risk of forgery.
Members of the family do sign their names in guest books when on official duties, with the princess only writing “Catherine” since her marriage.
William and Catherine attracted large crowds on their visit
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PADuring their visit to Powys, their Royal Highnesses embarked on a tour of three locations across the county.
The couple began at The Hanging Gardens in Llanidloes before moving on to Oriel Davies art gallery in Newtown and concluding with a gathering of volunteer organisations at Hafan yr Afon.
The visit came just before Wales marks its national day on March 1.
The Hanging Gardens serves as a creative and community-focused space dedicated to building resilience among residents of Llanidloes and the surrounding area.
The Prince and Princess of Wales stunned well-wishers in Wales | GETTY
The venue operates as a multifaceted hub offering a café, performing arts centre, indoor market, community garden, kitchens and workshop facilities, all centred on principles of sustainable living and artistic expression.
During their stop, the Prince and Princess of Wales met those who volunteer their time to keep the centre operational.
The royal couple also took part in several of the venue’s distinctive workshops and activities.
Among these was involvement in preparations for the upcoming St David’s Day celebrations, allowing Their Royal Highnesses to engage directly with the community spirit that has earned Powys its reputation as the nation’s volunteering capital.
Catherine, Princess of Wales took a picture with a group of school boys | PA
Hundreds of well-wishers stood for hours beneath umbrellas in torrential rain to welcome the Prince and Princess of Wales during their visit to Llanidloes ahead of St David’s Day on Sunday.
William was told that the monarchy is “safe in your (his) hands” during the visit.
Jill Christofides, 65, from Newtown, shook William’s hand and told him: “The monarchy is safe in your hands, Sir.”
One observer characterised the enthusiastic reception as “Walesmania,” with the pair embracing the occasion by accepting local hospitality ranging from traditional Welsh cakes to glasses of cider.
“If I’m offered a glass of cider, I’m having a glass of cider,” William remarked.
The visit featured hugs, selfies, and one young girl in a plastic crown who clung to Catherine’s leg, seemingly unwilling to release her grip.
The enthusiastic welcome provided a moment of respite for the Royal Family following a turbulent period.