Princess of Wales thanks public for support in Mother's Day message

The Princess of Wales has thanked the public for their "continued support" since she underwent surgery.

The 42-year-old princess - who underwent abdominal surgery on January 16 - has broken her public silence via a Mother's Day message posted on Instagram.

Alongside a family photo - which features the princess and her three children - a message reads: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months.

"Wishing everyone a Happy Mother’s Day. C (sic)"

In the photo, the princess is seen smiling while sat alongside Prince George, ten, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five.

Prince William took the photo at Windsor earlier this month.

The princess underwent surgery in January and Kensington Palace previously confirmed that she's unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter.

The Palace said in a statement on January 17: "Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to hospital yesterday for planned abdominal surgery.

"The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery. Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter.

"The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.

"Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’ progress when there is significant new information to share.

"The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements. She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible."

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