Prince William will return to work next week when he carries out his first engagement of the new year.

Kensington Palace has announced that the royal will visit London's Air Ambulance at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, and the event falls on an important date for the Cambridge family. The appearance is due to take place on 9 January - Kate Middleton's 37th birthday.

William, who previously worked as an air ambulance pilot for the East Anglia AirAmbulance, will meet pilots, clinicians and paramedics to hear more about their experiences delivering life-saving treatment across the capital and the challenges they face on the job.

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Duke of Cambridge Begins First Shift As Air Ambulance Pilotpinterest
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William worked with the East Anglian Air Ambulance until July 2017

The Duke will later join staff, patients and their families at a tea party to mark the 30th anniversary of the charity. The east London location of William's visit means he won't be too far away from any birthday celebrations that might take place at the couple's Kensington Palace home later in the day.

William was last seen in public on Christmas Day, when the royal family arrived at the church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate. The Cambridges were joined by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they made their way to the annual service.

The Royal Family Attend Church On Christmas Daypinterest
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The royal family on Christmas Day

There's no news yet on when we will next see mum-to-be Meghan, although 2019 is set to be a busy year for the Duchess. It's believed that her royal patronages are due to be announced before she starts her maternity leave, with The Times reporting that "discussions are ongoing" between the Queen and Meghan regarding the duties she will take on.

The royal family celebrate Christmas Day at Sandringham
Royal family at Sandringham