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Prince William and Kate Middleton are a hit with children on Northern Ireland visit – best photos

The couple spent the day in Ballymena

kate middleton receiving flowers
Ainhoa Barcelona
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kate middleton prince william ni visit© Photo: Twitter

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge started the second day of their visit to Northern Ireland at Hillsborough Castle, the Queen's official residence when she's in the area. William and Kate – or Baron and Lady Carrickfergus as they're known in Northern Ireland – were introduced to George Hamilton, Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, and members of his force, who told the royals about the challenging roles they undertake.

Later in the day, William and Kate visited Ballymena. They undertook a quick walkabout outside the Braid Arts Centre, chatting and meeting as many locals as possible before going into charity Cinemagic.

Their third engagement of the day brought William and Kate to St Joseph's SureStart Facility, a programme that supports parents with young children living in disadvantaged areas. The royals, who are strong believers in early intervention to prevent problems later down the line, sat in on support groups for men and for families.

Let's take a look at the Duke and Duchess' best photos from the final day of their visit…

kate middleton meeting policemen© Photo: Twitter

During the previously unannounced visit, William and Kate spoke to the police force about the challenges they face. The Duchess wore a dress by one of her favourite designers, Jenny Packham.

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kate middleton meets crowds© Photo: PA

William and Kate were greeted by excited crowds outside the Braid Arts Centre, who had come out in droves to catch a glimpse of the royals.

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kate middleton arrives light blue coat© Photo: PA

Kate had three outfit changes on day one of the visit, and on Thursday, the Duchess stunned again in a powder blue Mulberry coat.

kate william talking visit© Photo: Getty Images

The couple were given a warm welcome on their visit to Cinemagic charity. Kate carried a navy clutch by Jimmy Choo.

kate middleton meeting crowd© Photo: PA

A closer look at Kate's Mulberry coat.

kate middleton meeting cute dog© Photo: PA

Dog lover Kate looked particularly taken by one little pooch in the crowd.

kate middleton crowd meeting northern ireland© Photo: PA

William bent down to chat to some youngsters.

kate middleton cinemagic visit© Photo: PA

The couple visited Cinemagic to see how the charity uses film, television and digital technologies as a means to educate, motivate and inspire young people. Aspiring filmmakers are able to learn about a range of disciplines, including directing, production, costume and make-up, sound, lighting and music composition.

prince william and kate middleton at cinemagic© Photo: PA

William, who is President of BAFTA, and his wife Kate were in high spirits during the visit.

kate middleton at sure smart© Photo: PA

After lunch, the Duke and Duchess headed to SureStart, a programme that helps parents with children aged under four. The royals met families who come from disadvantaged areas and learnt how the organisation supports parents and provides best practice for early years work.

kate middleton and little boy in northern ireland© Photo: PA

Kate bonded with an adorable youngster from St Joseph's Primary School.

kate middleton at sure© Photo: PA

Activities that William and Kate sat in on included a men's support group, a family support group, action for children and hello spring fun day.

kate middleton and prince william sure© Photo: PA

The Duchess bonded with kids at the event.

prince william at sure© Photo: PA

Prince William showed his paternal side as he chatted to the kids.

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