Pregnant Duchess Of Cambridge Makes First Public Appearance

A week ago, she was in hospital with severe morning sickness, but last night the Duchess of Cambridge dazzled an audience of millions as the made her first pubic appearance to present the BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

Smiling and radiant, pregnant Kate stepped onto the stage in a stunning emerald Alexander McQueen dress to hand Tour de France and Olympic cycling champion Bradley Wiggins the coveted top award of Sports Personality of the Year.

Standing alongside David Beckham she looked a picture of health as she beamed throughout the ceremony.

It's hard to believe that the 30-year-old is still said to be suffering from morning sickness. After all, it was only a week ago that the Duchess left hospital after spending several days being treated for hyperemesis gravidarum.

But according to aides, nothing was going to stop her attending the prestigious event at London's ExCel, despite being less than 12 weeks pregnant.

The Duchess is a Team GB Ambassador and was determined to pay tribute to the achievements of British sportsmen and women in a remarkable year for British sport. However, she only stayed for 45 minutes to see Andy Murray finish third, Jessica Ennis second and Bradley Wiggins in top spot before returning home to Kensington Palace, where she continues to recuperate.

Doctors have warned her that the condition can recur at any time in the first few months of pregnancy - and sometimes even beyond.

"While the Duchess does not feel ready to attend a four-hour engagement, she is keen to show her support to the UK's sportsmen and women at this prestigious event which caps a momentous year for British sport," said a senior royal source.

Kate attended the event alone as her husband, Prince William, has been forced to return to their rented farmhouse in Anglesey, North Wales, as he is due on duty as an RAF Search and Rescue pilot.