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The Duchess of Cambridge attends her first solo royal engagement on behalf of The Prince of Wales
27th October 2011
The Duchess of Cambridge has carried out her first official solo engagement - standing in for her father-in-law.
The Prince of Wales was to attend last night's private dinner in aid of In Kind Direct - one of his charities - at Clarence House.
The Duchess stepped in after The Prince was unable to attend because of his trip to Riyadh to present condolences to the Saudi Royal Family following the death of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia.
A St. James's Palace spokesman said: "The Duchess of Cambridge was delighted to be able to step in for her father-in-law, The Prince of Wales, to celebrate the work of In Kind Direct at the dinner."
The Duchess wore a turquoise empire-line dress at the reception which was attended by about 30 guests.
The spokesperson said: "The Duchess had a little bit of time beforehand to prepare for the engagement - it all went very well.
"She was so pleased that her first solo engagement was for The Prince of Wales, who has shown her so much support over the years."
The reception was held to thank funders and supporters of the charity which redistributes surplus goods from manufacturers and retailers to UK charities working at home and abroad.
The Prince of Wales founded the charity in 1996.
Robin Boles, chief executive of In Kind Direct, said: "This event was a unique opportunity for In Kind Direct to thank generous supporters who have helped us over the years to deliver so much benefit for UK charities and the millions of people they serve.
"We were delighted that The Duchess was able to step in at such short notice after our founder was unexpectedly called away.
"The Duchess hosted a very special evening with absolute professionalism and charm."
Further information
Find out more about In Kind Direct
Visit The Duchess of Cambridge's homepage