Royal Butler Reveals Public Would be ‘Horrified’ to Know What Happens to the Christmas Gifts Sent to Kate Middleton and Prince William
The royal family has historically received Christmas gifts from the public for years. However, a royal butler claims that the public would be “horrified” to learn not only how many gifts Kate Middleton and Prince William receive, but what happens to them as well.
Kate Middleton and Prince William receive a staggering number of holiday presents
Former royal butler Grant Harrold told The Sun that the public wouldn’t believe the staggering number of holiday presents Kate Middleton, Prince William, and other royal family members receive yearly. Most of these gifts are from those outside the royal circle, who show appreciation to the couple.
Harrold explained, “Do you know you’d be horrified how many [presents] they get? And I think the public would be like ‘wow’ because they get loads of gifts.”
He continued, “I didn’t see everything that came in because there were so many. Most of the presents would be sent to the palace where they’d be all logged. They’d be all cataloged.”
“There’s no way he [the king] can look at a thousand gifts. What I think happens, and this is my guesstimate because of what happens with Christmas cards and letters, is samples are put out for him to look at and to read,” Harrold concluded.
Are the royal family allowed to accept gifts from outsiders?
The official royal family website explains the procedure for receiving gifts from outsiders at the palace. It states that no gifts should be accepted, which could make any member of the royal family obligated to the donor.
“Before declining the offer of a gift, careful consideration should be given to any offense that might be caused by such action.”
“Gifts offered by private individuals living in the UK not personally known to members of the royal family should be refused where there are concerns about the propriety or motives of the donor or the gift itself.”
Some gifts can be accepted. These are flowers, foodstuff, copies of books presented by the author (provided the subject matter is not controversial), and gifts worth less than $190.
However, there are times when Kate Middleton, Prince William, and other royal family members keep gifts. The website says that under no circumstances, should those be sold or exchanged. But they can be used, displayed, become part of the Royal Collection, or donated to charity.
If a royal fan sends a present to the palace, will they get a response?
Typically, all gifts sent to the royal family are cataloged with the type of item and the person’s name and address. Then, each token receives a response within due time.
A thank you card will be sent from the palace. While not personalized, the note remains an acknowledgment of the gift’s receipt.
Members of the royal family can be contacted through their private offices. Kate and William’s address differs from that of King Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles.
Those wishing to contact Kate and William should send postal mail to:
The Prince and Princess of Wales
Kensington Palace, London, W8 4PX
For Charles and Camilla, mail should be sent to:
The King and Queen
Buckingham Palace, London, SW1A 1AA.
