Kate Middleton St Patrick’s Day green coats | Every time the Princess of Wales Duchess of Cambridge has attended St Patrick’s Day events with the Irish Guards

“On this, my 13th and final St Patrick’s Day as Colonel, not only am I saddened that I’ll likely fail once again to finish a pint of Guinness… but I am also sad that I won’t in future see more of you, the families, whose unwavering support enables these outstanding men and women to do what they do,” William said in his speech.

“I may be stepping aside, but in Colonel Catherine you have a committed, focused, and already incredibly loyal 11th Colonel.”

Kate then gave a speech of her own, where she told the regiment she ”really couldn’t be prouder” and considered her role as Colonel “a true honour”.

“I am here to listen to you, to support you, and to champion you in all you do – this is a responsibility I do not take lightly,” Kate said.

After praising the work they do, having recently visited one of the training exercises in the snow, Kate then thanked her husband.

“Before I close, however, I want to thank Colonel William. He has always talked about his fierce pride for this Regiment. I know he will continue to support us all in the work we do,” she said.