Royal couple greets adoring crowds in Ottawa

It may be the Canada Day weekend but Union Jacks mixed with the Maple Leaf in Ottawa on Thursday as the nation’s capital welcomed the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Prince William and his new bride marked the start of their nine-day Canadian tour with visits to the National War Memorial and Rideau Hall.

The Royal tour began quietly with a somber tribute to veterans at the national war memorial.

William and Kate then mingled with fans in a screaming crowd that waved Canadian and British flags.

“It’s something that not everyone can say – I shook hands and talked to the Princess. It’s just something unreal.” said one excited fan.

The Royal couple received their official welcome at Rideau Hall where Prime Minister Harper congratulated Will and Kate on their recent marriage before the Prince greeted the nation.

“Katharine and I are so delighted to be here in Canada. We’ve been looking forward to this moment for a very long time and before we were married we had a longing to come here together,” said the Prince. “The geography of Canada is unsurpassed and is famous for being matched only by the hospitality of its peoples. We are so very excited about having this opportunity to experience both and learn much more about this amazing country.”

Later, the couple attended a reception for young Canadians on the grounds of the Governor General’s residence.

Due to rain, the event planned for the terrace of Rideau Hall was delayed and moved indoors to the Tent Room, so-called because it once was an actual tent.

The casual reception was a celebration of young Canadians and about 100 were selected to attend to honour their community service. The savouries and sweets on the menu featured ingredients harvested from all corners of Canada and put together by a team of chefs.

On Friday, the couple will join the nation in marking Canada’s 144th birthday with a celebration on Parliament Hill.

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