Duchess of Cambridge shares picture of her grandmother to mark the 150th anniversary of the British Red Cross

The Duchess of Cambridge has shared a picture of her grandmother to mark a very special occasion.

• Duchess Catherine shared a picture of her grandmother Valerie, who served with the British Red Cross in the Second World War.
• The lovely photo was released alongside a special letter written by the royal to mark the 150th anniversary of the British Red Cross.
• This follows royals news that the Queen wished Meghan Markle happy birthday with a lovely tribute.

Duchess Catherine has released a picture of her grandmother Valerie Middleton to mark the 150th anniversary of the British Red Cross that is celebrated on Tuesday 4 August.

The duchess’ grandmother can be seen dressed in her nurse’s uniform alongside her colleagues.

The photo was shared on William and Catherine’s official Instagram account, and the caption read, ‘🏥 Valerie Middleton (centre), The Duchess of Cambridge’s grandmother, served as a Voluntary Aid Detachment with the @britishredcross during the Second World War.

‘Over 75 years on, as we mark the 150th anniversary of the British Red Cross, The Duchess of Cambridge has written a special letter thanking 150 nominated Red Cross staff and volunteers, which will be sent alongside a commemorative coin from the Royal Mint.

‘For 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are.

‘As we mark this special anniversary, Members of @TheRoyalFamily have come together to recognise the work of the volunteers, staff, supporters and partners of the charity who have made a difference to the lives of millions of people who have faced crisis, both in the UK and overseas.’

The Queen also marked the day by sharing a message of support for the organisation.

‘As patron of the British Red Cross I send my warmest congratulations to the staff and volunteers of the Society on the occasion of its one hundred and fiftieth anniversary’, she wrote.

‘Whether those involved in the Society are assisting people to return home from hospital safely, offering care and support in the aftermath of a disaster, volunteering in a shop, administering first aid or some of the many other activities the British Red Cross encompasses, their contribution is recognised, valued and greatly appreciated. I send my heartfelt thanks and warmest good wishes to you all.’