The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge host Christmas party at Kensington Palace – in pictures

Kate Middleton and Prince William, both 36, are hosting a Christmas party at Kensington Palace today.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived at the event for families and children of deployed personnel from RAF Coningsby and RAF Marham serving in Cyprus.

Kate injected a some festive cheer into the proceedings this afternoon with a midi length red tartan skirt.

She teamed the bold pleated skirt with a round-neck black top with buttons down the front and a matching pair of black suede boots.

Wearing her hair loose in bouncy curls, the royal looked in high spirits as she made her way to the party with her husband of seven years.

Prince William wore a smart casual outfit in Kensington today.

He teamed his blue zip down jumper and un-done shirt in a lighter shade of blue with a pair of chinos.

The couple, who are parents to Prince George, five, Princess Charlotte, three, and Prince Louis, seven months, walked through a flurry of fake snow at the December gathering.

A man dressed as Father Christmas was also seen arriving at the venue.