Princess Kate and Prince William to miss traditional Easter Sunday event after cancer news

Princess Kate and Prince William will not be attending the Easter service this year (Image: GETTY)

Princess Kate and Prince William will not be attending the Royal Family's traditional Easter Sunday church service after it was revealed this evening that the Princess of Wales has cancer.

In an emotional statement, she confirmed that "cancer had been present", which was revealed by tests that followed successful abdominal surgery in London in January.

The 42-year-old said that she had been advised by her medical team to "undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy" which she was "now in the early stages of".

As a result, Princess Kate and her husband Prince William will not be attending the annual Easter Sunday church service in Windsor, as the Princess of Wales continues her recovery.

During her statement, Princess Kate said the diagnosis "came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family".

She added: "As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.

"But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK.

"As I have said to them; I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits."

The diagnosis comes two months after her father-in-law King Charles III spoke about about his own treatment for cancer.

The monarch is currently undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.

At the end of her statement, Princess Kate reserved special praise for her husband calling him a "great source of comfort and reassurance".

She added: "As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both. We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment.

Ordinarily, the Royal Family normally celebrates Easter together at Windsor Castle, including attending a church service at St George's Chapel.

Last year was the first the family attended without the late Queen, instead being headed up by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Kate, William and their children also attended, marking the first time Prince Louis was able to enjoy the service with his family.

Kate looked stunning in a bright blue Catherine Walker dress with matching hat, pictured holding her son's hand as she and Louis arrived at the event.