The Duke Of Cambridge Leaves The RAF: William, Kate And George Moving To London

The Duke Of Cambridge Leaves The RAF: William, Kate And George Moving To London

New dad the Duke of Cambridge has left the RAF after seven and a half years of service as a search and rescue helicopter pilot.

William carried out his last shift on Tuesday (September 10) and will now enter into a 'transitional year' while is considers his options for 'public service'.

William, Kate and baby George will be leaving Anglesey in the next few weeks to set up home at Kensington Palace.

Announcing William's news, Kensington Palace said in a statement: "His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge is to leave operational service in the Armed Forces.

"He completes his Tour with the Royal Air Force Search and Rescue Force at RAF Valley, Anglesey, after more than seven-and-a-half years of full-time military service.

"He will continue to support the work of the Queen and the Royal Family through a programme of official engagements, both at home and overseas, with The Duchess of Cambridge.

"The Duke will work closely over the next 12 months with the Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry. He will expand his work in the field of conservation, particularly in respect of endangered species.

"The Duke will continue to work with his charities on issues relating to children and young people, veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces.

"The Duke is currently considering a number of options for public service, a further announcement on which will follow in due course. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George are expected to move into their official residence at Kensington Palace within the next few weeks."

Head of the RAF, Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford, praised William's hard work as the announcement came.

He said: "Flight Lieutenant Wales has been an integral part of the Royal Air Force's Search and Rescue Force, as a Sea King pilot on No. 22 Squadron, based at Royal Air Force Valley for the past three years.

"Throughout his tour his airmanship, often in the most demanding of conditions, has contributed directly to saving lives in the mountains of North Wales and from the ravages of the Irish Sea. He has earned the respect of all who have worked with him as a highly professional and competent pilot."

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