On the surface they couldn’t be more different, a homebody princess versus a high-gloss duchess. But, there is a subplot at work here, argues Fleur Britten – and the two women hint at more similarities than you may think

The Prince and Princess of Wales have donated to a south London food bank after thieves raided its warehouse.

Workers arrived at Southwark Foodbank’s warehouse in Peckham to find empty shelves after burglars stole thousands of pounds worth of goods in the early hours of Sunday, the food bank said.

William and Kate donated £3,500 to charity Pecan after hearing about the theft, which will cover the costs of the goods stolen and the damage caused, the food bank added.

Peter Edwards, chief executive of Pecan, said: “This surprise donation by the Prince and Princess of Wales – following such a difficult spell for their family – underlines their kindness and decency.

“After serious ill health their first thought was of how to help others.

“Their generosity will inspire staff and volunteers to redouble Pecan’s efforts to alleviate poverty in London.”

The Prince of Wales  told new RAF officers the country will be relying on them to deal with “future threats” during the present “time of change and uncertainty”.

William spoke during the graduation ceremony of more than 50 officers who have completed their training at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell.

The prince knows RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire well, as he trained at the air force base, flying solo for the first time and later received his wings from his father during a ceremony in 2008.

He remained in the RAF for much of his active military career going on to fly as a helicopter pilot in the RAF Search and Rescue Force before becoming an air ambulance helicopter pilot.

The princess has finished chemotherapy but said her “path to healing and full recovery is long”:

The Duchess of Edinburgh presented the prize for the British Fashion Council Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design to to Steven Stokey-Daley.