Duchess of Cambridge wears her favourite comfortable shoes in first official visit since lockdown started

The Duchess of Cambridge (opens in new tab) visited a garden centre earlier today, as independent shops start to open – and she wore her favourite shoes.

• Duchess Catherine visited the Fakenham Garden Centre, near her Norfolk home where she’s been staying with Prince William and their three children.
• The Duke of Cambridge also visited a local bakery, where he actually received a birthday cake.
• This follows royal news (opens in new tab) that Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall had to get creative to greet French President Macron during his official visit to UK (opens in new tab).

It’s been a while since we’ve seen all the members of the royal family out and about, as they all self-isolated during lockdown.

But now lockdown is easing, Catherine was one of the first royals to go out for an official engagement, to support local independent businesses who are now opening their doors again.

READ MORE: Duchess of Cambridge wears gorgeous and affordable Marks & Spencer dress (opens in new tab)

The duchess visited the Fakenham Garden Centre, where she met the centre’s owners, before speaking to staff members.

She heard more about the measures the garden centre is implementing to ensure customers are able to visit and shop safely. Catherine also wore her favourite her favourite comfortable shoes for the engagement – her trusty Supergas (opens in new tab) - as well as her gorgeous Monica Vinader drop earrings.

SHOP NOW: Superga Unisex Adults’ 2750-cotu Classic Plimsolls, from £17.32, Amazon (opens in new tab)

SHOP NOW: Siren Wire Earrings, from £115, Monica Vinader (opens in new tab)

During the visit, she sweetly revealed that both Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis have been growing tomato plants at home.

"They were very excited to grow them from seeds and now they're as tall as them”, she said.

Prince William also visited a local bakery, where he bought some treats for his children and received a lovely birthday cake – ahead of the big day on Sunday, which this year coincides with Father’s Day.

Their visits come as the Queen also sent a message to all the messages opening up to customers after so many weeks with their doors closed.

Her Majesty wrote, “As many organisations around the country are reopening, I send my warmest best wishes and support to business communities throughout the United Kingdom, Commonwealth and across the world.

“At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities.

“As Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, it gives me great pride to see the contribution you and your members are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities.

“I wish all businesses every success in their endeavours in the weeks and months ahead.”