express gazette logo
The Express Gazette
Sunday, October 25, 2026

William and Kate Share New Family Photo from Princess of Wales's Three Peaks Challenge

The royal couple thanked mountain rescue volunteers on Mountain Rescue Awareness Day.

US Politics • an hour ago
William and Kate Share New Family Photo from Princess of Wales's Three Peaks Challenge

The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a new family photograph taken during Kate's Three Peaks Challenge in June, coinciding with Mountain Rescue Awareness Day. The image, shared on Instagram, shows the Wales family and others participating in Kate's expedition.

In June, the Princess of Wales completed the challenge of scaling the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales—Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon—within a 24-hour period. The endeavor was undertaken to raise money for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, the hospital where she received treatment for cancer. Kate announced in 2024 that she was undergoing cancer treatment and was in remission by the beginning of 2025.

The newly released photo captures the Wales family at the base of Snowdon, with Princess Catherine at the center. The accompanying message, signed 'W & C,' expressed gratitude to mountain rescue volunteers for their dedication, professionalism, and compassion in ensuring safety in challenging terrains. The caption read: "On Mountain Rescue Awareness Day, we send our heartfelt thanks to all those who volunteer their time and expertise to keep people safe in some of our most beautiful but challenging landscapes."

It continued, "Through our connection with this remarkable organisation, we have seen first-hand the dedication, professionalism and compassion that define their work. Meeting local mountain rescue teams during the Three Peaks Challenge this summer was an opportunity to say thank you in person for the vital role they play in keeping walkers and climbers safe on the mountains all year round. We are incredibly proud to support the extraordinary volunteers who respond in all conditions, often at a moment’s notice, to help others when they need it most. To everyone across the mountain rescue community, thank you for your unwavering commitment, courage and service."

In the photograph, Prince William is seen with his hands on the shoulders of the couple's youngest son, Prince Louis. Princess Charlotte and Prince George, who recently began studies at Eton College, also joined to greet their mother upon completion of the challenge.

During her ascent of Ben Nevis, Kate interacted with 11-year-old Ted Haslam, a paraplegic boy who was being carried up the mountain by his father and a group of 15 friends and relatives. Kate inquired about his well-being, noting the weather conditions, and learned that Ted was raising funds for the Molly Ollys charity, which provides hospital equipment. She expressed admiration for his achievement and wished him luck for the remainder of the challenge.

Following their encounter, it was revealed that Kate made a private donation to Ted's fundraising efforts, posting on his JustGiving page: "One of the real highlights of the Three Peaks Challenge was meeting inspiring people like you along the way. Huge congratulations to the entire team for raising money for such a wonderful cause. C." Kate later hosted Ted and other participants of the Three Peaks Challenge at a reception held at Windsor Castle.


Sources