Judy Finnigan was spotted looking emotional at Kate Middleton’s star-studded Christmas carol service, which aired on ITV on Tuesday night.

The 76-year-old former This Morning presenter attended the pre-recorded event, held at London’s Westminster Abbey on December 6.

Sitting next to husband Richard Madeley, Judy appeared to hold back tears as the Royal Ballet School took to the stage.

The service featured heartfelt moments and brought together a host of celebrities to celebrate the festive season.

There were poignant readings linked to the theme of love and empathy were delivered by speakers including The Prince of Wales, Olympian Adam Peaty OBE, Sophie Okonedo CBE, Michelle Dockery and Richard E. Grant.

There were also special performances from Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith, and JP Cooper.

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Judy Finnigan was spotted looking emotional at Kate Middleton ‘s star-studded Christmas carol service, which aired on ITV on Tuesday night

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Sitting next to husband Richard Madeley , Judy appeared to hold back tears as the Royal Ballet School took to the stage

The service, produced by The Royal Foundation, aimed to ‘celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive’.

ITV said: ‘This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy.’

Hosted by the Princess of Wales, this was her first major public appearance since undergoing preventative chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

Her heartfelt message was also given in a letter to every guest at the concert and 15 regional community services.

Kate said: ‘Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year, it is a time for presents, tinsel and mince pies, but it’s also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all.

‘It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness, so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about.

‘The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others. It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear.’

The theme of this year’s ‘Together at Christmas’ concert is love and empathy, which is perhaps suitable considering the difficult year the Princess has had.

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The service featured heartfelt moments and brought together a host of celebrities to celebrate the festive season (pictured Adam Peaty delivering a reading)

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Sophie Okonedo also gave a reading

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Singer Olivia Dean performed at the event

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Paloma Faith also performed at the event

Kate continued: ‘The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope.

‘It is love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas but every day of our lives.’

Her message was told in the form of a voice over played at the start of the ‘Together at Christmas’ carol concert.

Kate has been described as being ‘hands on’ over every aspect of the service, including holding regular planning meetings at Windsor ahead of filming.

On the day the service was filmed, the Princess arrived on her own at 4pm to view the abbey and oversee last minute arrangements.

However, the supportive royals have also helped Kate bring her ideas together, with everyone from King Charles, who donated Christmas trees, and Prince Louis, who penned a sweet note, helping to make the service a seasonal success.

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The Princess of Wales returned to screens to host her annual Together At Christmas carol concert after her toughest year yet

The Princess of Wales looked elegant in an Alexander McQueen red coat, featuring a statement black bow, which she teamed with black Ralph Lauren boots for the festive occasion.

The event, which was attended by 1,600 people ‘reflects upon…how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives’.

The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities’.

‘It’s been a focal point for her, as it is each year,’ a source added.