Kate Middleton's Royal Carols viewers divided as they tune into heartfelt service

Royal Carols: Together At Christmas aired on ITV on Christmas Eve but viewers at home were divided by the heartfelt service

Royal Carols: Together At Christmas viewers tuned in to the heartfelt service on Christmas Eve as Princess Kate Middleton shared a message on 'love and empathy'.

The Princess of Wales, 42, held her annual Together At Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey following her tough year of health battles and preventative chemotherapy treatment. Kate has only made a handful of public appearances this year as her treatment ended in September.

On Tuesday evening, Kate stepped out in a red coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, adorned with a large black bow on the collar as she arrived at Westminster Abbey in London to chat with guests and famous faces ahead of the service. The audience and viewers at home were gifted with stunning vocals from Gregory Porter and Paloma Faith.

Richard E Grant, Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery, Sophie Okonedo - nominated for an Oscar for her role in the film Hotel Rwanda - and Olympic swimming champion Adam Peaty also gave readings during the service. However, viewers at home were divided by the televised event as they took to social media to share their thoughts.

Some were in awe over the performances, with one user saying: "That was a lovely treat. I really enjoyed the music, the ballet and the stories about the organisations. The Belong old and young choir was enchanting, and heartwarming to see," and another posting: "Anyone else feeling really emotional watching #RoyalCarols ?"

One said: "That was simply lovely! Wonderful singing from everyone!" However, some were disappointed by the event and wrote: "Well I was disappointed in that Thought princess Catherine was going to talk All I can say is how well behaved the children were because I’m not sure I could have sat through it," with another posting: "It's Christmas so it would be vehemently abhorrent of me to speak in a negative tone. So I'll just say Paloma gave it a good go there."

Speaking on Christmas Eve at the carol concert, Kate shared a message on 'love' and 'kindness'. She said: "Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year, it is a time for presents, tinsel and mince pies, but it's also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all.

“It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness, so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about. The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others. It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear.

Kate continued: “The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope. It is love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas but every day of our lives.”

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