Inside Kate Middleton’s dependable A-team – from royal besties to college pals

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The Princess of Wales, 42, is being supported by loyal pals as she recovers from her planned abdominal surgery - Here's a guide to the key figures in her inner circle.

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Kate's younger sister Pippa Matthews was maid of honour at her wedding to William in 2011, and will no doubt be helping her get back to full fitness.

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Hannah Carter was on Kate's hockey team at Marlborough College, a boarding school in Wiltshire, and was named godmother to Prince Louis in 2018.

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Hannah's sister-in-law Sophie Snuggs is another of Kate's closest pals. She is Princess Charlotte's godmother and once joined the royals at a Sandringham church service.

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Another of Kate's school pals, Emilia Jardine-Paterson was dubbed Marlborough College's "It Girl". The niece of Viscount Exmouth, she is thought to have introduced Kate to William.

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Kate met Lady Laura Meade through William, who is pals with Laura's husband James. She is one of Prince Louis's godmothers, and James is godfather to Princess Charlotte.

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Of course, Kate's husband Prince William, 41, will be on hand to help now she has returned home...

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