Princess Catherine apologises for Mother's Day photo confusion

Princess Catherine apologises for Mother's Day photo confusion. [Prince of Wales]

The Princess of Wales, Catherine, has issued an apology for any misunderstanding caused by a Mother's Day photograph she shared, which was later retracted by several news agencies over editing concerns.

The photograph in question, captured by the Prince of Wales, depicted Catherine with her children and was the first image released following her surgery in January.

Catherine's statement, shared on the official Kensington Palace social media accounts, read: "I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother's Day."

Her statement followed the withdrawal of the image by PA, Getty Images, AFP, Associated Press, and Reuters, with AP specifically pointing out an "inconsistency in the alignment of Princess Charlotte's left hand."

The controversy has sparked a debate on the ethics of photo manipulation, with Piers Morgan, a prominent journalist, voicing his concerns.

Morgan suggested that if the palace indeed altered the photograph, it could exacerbate existing rumours about the princess's health.

Kensington Palace has remained silent on the matter, while the photo agencies have stated that the image was initially provided in good faith.

The photo, showing the Princess seated with her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, was a poignant reminder of her recent absence from the public eye due to her recovery.