By Press Association 2021
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during the official opening of the Balfour, Orkney’s new hospital in Kirkwall
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have thanked medical staff for their efforts during the pandemic as they officially opened the Orkney Islands’ £65 million hospital.
William and Kate were greeted with cheers and rounds of applause from well-wishers and nurses as they began their first official visit to the remote Scottish archipelago.
The couple are touring Scotland as part of William’s role as Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.
The Cambridges during the official opening of the hospital (Chris Jackson/PA)