Kate looks on as William gets his wings

It looks like previous speculation that Kate Middleton had been banned from Prince William's graduation from the Royal Air Force was incorrect. Both William and Kate were all smiles during yesterday's ceremony as William, along with 25 other graduates, received his RAF wings from Prince Charles.

Kate, wearing a long white coat and her signature black boots sat next to William's Aunt, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, during the ceremony. Her appearance there was kept secret as media-shy William didn't want to create a fuss.

A source said, "He did consider not inviting Kate but she is his girlfriend and he wanted her there.

"All the other graduates brought their partners, so why shouldn't he? For what it is worth, she said she thought he looked gorgeous in his uniform."

Prince William is following in the footsteps of a long line of men before him. His father and grandfather both qualified as pilots, and his great-great grandfather, King George VI, served in the RAF in the early 20th century.

In June, Prince William with leave the Royal Air Force and move on to his attachment with the Royal Navy before returning to his Blues and Royals regiment. His training periods with the RAF and Navy are 'familiarization attachments', which aim to prepare him for his future role at the head of the armed forces.

Next January he will officially be considered a "full-time" working royal as his short stint in the military will be complete.

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