Deep breath, Louis! Princess of Wales looks on as Prince blows out candle at Christmas carol service

Prince Louis takes a deep breath as the Princess of Wales holds the candle steady
Prince Louis takes a deep breath as the Princess of Wales holds the candle steady - AARON CHOWN/PA
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With his mother the Princess of Wales holding on in case of mishap, Prince Louis takes a deep breath and prepares to blow out a Christmas candle.

No wonder the Princess appears slightly nervous, as any parent would.

The scene comes during her Royal Highness’ carol service at Westminster Abbey which will be broadcast on Christmas Eve on ITV1 and ITVX.

The Prince and Princess of Wales looked on as Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis posted cards to children who might be struggling this year, leaving them in a Post Box outside the abbey.

The three royals post letters to children who might be struggling this year
The three royals post letters to children who might be struggling this year - JORDAN PETTITT/PA

During the introduction to Royal Carols: Together At Christmas, the Princess speaks of the vital role played by all those who nurture and raise young people.

In her introduction to the broadcast from Westminster Abbey she explains that this year’s service has been dedicated to all those who support the youngest members of our society.

Princess Charlotte greets Rev David Stanton and the Dean of Westminster Rev Dr David Hoyle
Princess Charlotte greets Rev David Stanton and the Dean of Westminster Rev Dr David Hoyle - AARON CHOWN/PA

The Princess also speaks about the inspiring guests who were invited to attend the service in recognition of their efforts to help the very youngest members of our communities, such as midwives, health visitors, nursery teachers and baby bank volunteers.

The message was recorded last month amidst the final preparations for the service, which was held at Westminster Abbey on Dec 8 to recognise those who go above and beyond to help others throughout the year.

The service showcased the hope of new life and the importance of building a support world for children
The service showcased the hope of new life and the importance of building a support world for children - JORDAN PETTITT/PA

Linked to Her Royal Highness’ Shaping Us campaign, the service showcased the hope of new life and the importance of building supportive, nurturing worlds around children and the adults in their lives.

Royal Carols: Together At Christmas, also features a special programme, narrated by the Scottish actress Ashley Jensen, which features films celebrating the contribution people in their communities make in supporting the very youngest members of society during their crucial early years.

These include contributions from Rio and Kate Ferdinand, Ugo Monye, Andrea and Virginia Bocelli and Dame Sheila Hancock.

The service included films of those who had made an impact on the lives of young children in their community
The service included films of those who had made an impact on the lives of young children in their community - AARON CHOWN/PA

The service featured musical performances by the Westminster Abbey choir, Freya Ridings and James Bay, and a special duet from Beverley Knight and Adam Lambert.

Jacob Collier performed a captivating rendition of Last Christmas on John Lennon’s piano, loaned for the service by George Michael’s estate, and introduced by Roman Kemp, godson to the late George Michael.

Readings were delivered by The Prince of Wales, Micheal Ward, Emma Willis and Jim Broadbent. A specially commissioned poem written by Joseph Coelho, the Children’s Laureate, was also read by Leonie Elliott.

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