The Duchess of Cambridge hosted a dinner on behalf of HRH The Prince of Wales, celebrating the work of In Kind Direct.

The Duchess of Cambridge surprised guests attending a dinner at Clarence House yesterday evening as she stepped in for The Prince of Wales. The Prince of Wales was unable to attend owing to a trip to Saudi Arabia to present his condolences to the Saudi Arabian Royal Family following the death of The Crown Prince.

The event was held in support of the work of In Kind Direct, a charity founded by The Prince of Wales in 1996, which redistributes donated products from manufacturers and retailers to UK charities.

Finding the funds to pay for the goods needed to run their services is a huge struggle for many charities and one which the economic downturn is only making harder. In Kind Direct provides a lifeline for thousands of mainly small UK not for profit groups by helping them access the products they require to deliver their essential services to millions of people in need.  At the same time, In Kind Direct provides an efficient solution for companies looking to avoid waste and landfill.

Thirty-two donors and supporters of In Kind Direct attended the dinner in the Garden Room at Clarence House.

Robin Boles, Chief Executive of In Kind Direct said:

“This event was a unique opportunity for In Kind Direct to thank generous supporters who have helped us over the years to deliver so much benefit for UK charities and the millions of people they serve. We were delighted that the Duchess was able to step in at such short notice after our founder was unexpectedly called away. The Duchess hosted a very special evening with absolute professionalism and charm.”