Kensington Palace has shared some wonderful behind-the-scenes images of the Prince and Princess of Wales preparing to leave Buckingham Palace ahead of Trooping the Colour. The couple, who can be seen with their three children, Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 10 and Prince Louis, seven, have important roles to play in the parade.

While Kate is the Colonel of the Irish Guards, Prince William rode in the parade on horseback in his role as the Colonel of the Welsh Guards. He joined his uncle, Prince Edward, and aunt, Princess Anne, who are Colonels of the Scots Guards and the Blues and Royals, respectively.

The sweet images show the couple preparing to leave the palace as the Princess and the three young royals climbed into the carriage.

The Princess, who looked beautiful in a turquoise coloured dress, sweetly matched with Princess Charlotte, while Prince George and Prince Louis looked equally smart in matching red ties.

The image also gives a detailed look at Prince William’s full uniform. As well as his scarlet tunic and bearskin cap, which has a green and white hackle on the side, the Prince’s uniform features gold braiding on his shoulder, which is called an aiguillette and denotes that he is an Aide-de-Camp to the King.

Also clear are the embroidered leeks on his collar to show he is Colonel of the Welsh Guards and his blue sash which shows that he is a member of the Order of the Garter.