Princess Kate hails the uplifting power of love in letter to guests at Christmas carol concert

THE Princess of Wales has hailed the uplifting power of love in a heartfelt letter to her Christmas carol concert guests.

Kate, 42, wrote the message after taking time off from royal duties this year to have treatment for cancer.

Rugby player Rob Burrow’s widow Lindsey and former Olympic champion cyclist Sir Chris Hoy — who has terminal cancer — will light candles at the service in Westminster Abbey on Friday.

Families and survivors of the Southport attack will also attend.

The families will be welcomed to London for three days, with transport and accommodation provided by Southport Stronger Together.

Kate tells them: “The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others.

"It encourages us to turn to love.

"It is this love which is the greatest gift we can receive.

"Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times.”

The royal carol concert, also featuring performances by star singers Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter and Paloma Faith, will air on ITV1 on Christmas Eve.