GLOWING Kate Middleton showed off her growing baby bump as she attended a gala for a children's mental health charity last night.
The 35-year-old Duchess of Cambridge looked radiant in a black floor-length dress with lace detailing as she arrived at Kensington Palace's 18th-century Orangery.
The Diane von Furstenberg 'Zarita' frock is a favourite of thrifty Kate's - and is similar to one worn by Prince Harry's girlfriend Meghan Markle.
Kate, who is around four months pregnant, has been away from the limelight after suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum - a severe form of morning sickness.
But she appeared in good spirits last night as she met supporters and those who have been helped by the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families (AFNCCF) at a reception ahead of the event.
The Duchess, who is patron of the AFNCCF, wore her hair in loose curls for the black-tie event.
Terell Llewellyn, from west London, was among those who spoke with the Duchess, who is due to give birth in April.
The 11-year-old, who is back in mainstream school after receiving support from the charity, said Kate told him "well done", having previously met him a few years ago.
His father, Wayne Llewellyn, said: "It makes a difference that the Duchess of Cambridge has taken an interest in this. It's brilliant."
He added: "There's a lot of children in London who could do with this kind of help."
Journalist Kate Silverton, who compered the gala, praised the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry for shining a light on mental health "at precisely the right time".
The mother-of-two said: "The Heads Together campaign has done an enormous amount to raise awareness around mental health as a whole."
She added: "It has got people talking, it's de-stigmatised it, so I think what they've done has been absolutely wonderful."
Peter Fonagy, chief executive of the Anna Freud Centre, said Kate is "very interested in maternal mental health".
He added: "One of the things that we are interested in is intervening as early as possible in children's lives to improve their chances of good mental health throughout life.
"She's particularly concerned that mothers' mental health plays a major role in this and that we are able to support mothers to support their children."
Kensington Palace confirmed Kate and Wills were expecting their third child back in September.
In a statement, a royal spokesman said: "Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announced that The Duchess of Cambridge is expecting their third child."
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