Kate Middleton impresses the Queen at posh palace lunch

Kate Middleton bagged an exclusive invite to join Prince William at the event last week - and officials say she impressed

Kate Middleton further cemented her status as one of the most senior members of the royal family at an official Buckingham Palace lunch last week, where she impressed the Queen as she worked the room at the Diamond Jubilee occasion.

READ: KATE MIDDLETON WOWS IN EMILIA WICKSTEAD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

The Duchess of Cambridge joined Prince William, Prince Harry and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie at the event, where they met royals from around the world, including Prince Albert of Monaco and wife Charlene, and Princess Rania of Jordan.

And once again she wowed, looking perfectly pretty in a £1,200 pleated pink dress by British designer Emilia Wickstead.

Kate Middleton, William and Harry all chatted to guests during a drinks reception, before sitting down for the formal lunch.

And word has it the Queen was impressed with Kate's growing confidence as she worked the room, and delighted with the progression she's made since joining the royal family. 

Last year, royal insiders revealed the Queen was particularly pleased with how Kate handled her first royal tour, after winning over thousands in Canada. 

'Canada is extremely important to the Queen and everyone was watching and wondering how Kate would do. Anyone entering the Royal Family has to work to build up trust and prove that they are committed and up to the job,' one source revealed.

'So far, Kate has shown herself to be more than willing and more than capable.

'She is humble and keen to learn and the Queen likes that. She has grown very fond of her and recognises the impact she is having on the public.'

On Jubilee weekend William and Kate will join the Queen on the royal barge for the official Thames Pageant.

Are you looking forward to seeing Prince William and Kate Middleton join the Queen at the Diamond Julbilee pageant? Let us know in the comments box below…

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