People notice touching gesture King Charles made to Kate Middleton in change from usual protocol

People are pointing out the touching gesture King Charles III made towards his daughter-in-law Kate Middleton during today's Trooping the Colour ceremony.

The Princess of Wales' attendance at the King's birthday events today (15 June) had been in doubt due to her ongoing cancer treatment, with Kate only confirming she would be going last night.

During the celebrations Kate could be seen in the procession alongside her husband Prince William and their three children George, Charlotte and Louis.

The princess also joined the fellow senior members of the Royal Family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch the annual RAF flyover - which is where Charles gave a show of support for the princess.

During the flyover Kate was seen standing next to the King, with the pair pictured laughing and joking together. This marks a change from last year's protocol when Prince William was stood next to the monarch.

It's currently unknown whether or not the change was intentional, however it could be the King - who is also undergoing treatment for cancer - wanting to make sure Kate was comfortable in her first public engagement since the news broke.

Royal fans were delighted to see the princess back in action, sharing their joy and well-wishes on social media.

Kate attended the event today. (Neil Mockford/GC Images)

"The return of the Princess of Wales! Great to see her big smile as she travelled by carriage at Trooping the Colour with her children," wrote Royal photographer Samir Hussein.

"It’s so good to see Princess of Wales looking beautiful and elegant as ever. Wishing her the very best of health," another user wrote, while a third added: "Wishing her a return to health and long life."

Prior to the celebrations, Kate gave an update on her health and thanked everyone for their words of support as she continues her treatment.

"I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months," she said.

Well wishes have come pouring in. (Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

"It really has made the world of difference to William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times.

"I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting.

"But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.

However the princess revealed that she was 'not out of the woods yet' with treatment, adding: "I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty.

"Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much needed time to heal.

"Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me."