Kate Middleton returns to host moving Christmas TV special in honour of the Queen

The show will pay tribute to the values the Queen demonstrated throughout her life

Kate Middleton will host a special carol service this Christmas at Westminster Abbey to celebrate the life of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Duchess of Cambridge presented a festive special last year, which saw her play the piano as she joined singer Tom Walker for a performance of his song 'For Those Who Can’t Be Here.’

The Princess of Wales will helm the extravaganza at Westminster Abbey for a second year running in honour of Her Majesty, who died peacefully at Balmoral in September.

The ITV show will pay tribute to the values the monarch demonstrated throughout her life, including "empathy, compassion and support for others."

Supported by the Royal Foundation, the carol service will also recognise and celebrate “the selfless efforts” of those across the UK who go above and beyond to help others, and highlight “the remarkable impact that coming together to support others can have for us all”.

Members of the Royal family will be among those attending, alongside guests ranging from those involved in grassroots community projects, charity workers and volunteers, to emergency responders and armed forces personnel.

[caption id="attachment_366221" align="alignnone" width="2048"] (Getty)[/caption] The event will also see the Westminster Abbey choir perform the nation's best-loved carols alongside readings and musical performances by a variety of special guests, in an attempt to combine both traditional and modern elements.

Katie Rawcliffe, ITV Head of Entertainment Commissioning, said: "It is a real honour to be the broadcast partner for the Royal Carols again this year. Viewers are in for a very special festive treat."

Last year's service also saw Leona Lewis perform and Kate Garraway read a passage about love. The event was held as a thank you to the people who supported their communities during the pandemic.

Royal Carols: Together At Christmas will air on Christmas Eve on ITV and ITVX.

Related links:

• Fiji rugby players respectfully kneel for Princess Anne before Scotland match
• The Crown to show Prince Philip 'pursuing affair' just weeks after Queen’s death in 'cruel' blow to Royals
• Prince William and Kate make $1.3 billion in just 24 hours