The Prince and Princess of Wales welcome Germany’s President as State Visit gets under way

The Prince and Princess of Wales have met the President of Germany on the runway at the start of a prestigious State Visit to the UK.

William and Kate were waiting at the foot of the airplane steps to greet Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, Else Budenbender, as they touched down for a three day visit designed to cement relations between Germany and the UK.

The Prince and Princess accompanied their guests along the red carpet to waiting cars and on the journey to Windsor where the official welcome ceremony, overseen by King Charles and Queen Camilla, will take place.

It will include a full military welcome, the inspection of a Guard of Honour and a carriage procession through the streets of Windsor.

King Charles and Queen Camilla are hosting the President of Germany and his wife at Windsor Castle and will throw open the doors of St. George’s Hall this evening for a glittering State Banquet.

The ancient hall is looking particularly stunning at the moment as a giant Christmas tree, covered in thousands of lights as well as gold and green baubles, is now in place beneath the medieval vaulted ceiling.

The balconies of the hall are hung with festive garlands while the Great Staircase is also decked in evergreen for the season.

President Steinmeier will meet other members of the Royal Family at a lunch held at Windsor by King Charles and Queen Camilla as the State Visit gets fully under way.

As is traditional, items from the Royal Collection will be on show for guests with the focus on links between the UK and Germany. It’s thought that several items linked to Prince Albert, who was born in Germany, might feature. The Prince Consort is credited with making many Christmas traditions, including festive trees, popular in the UK. A sleigh that was used by Albert and Queen Victoria will also play a star role in the State Visit.