In news that makes us love the affable Prince even more, it has been announced today that The Duke of Cambridge is set to postpone his full-time Royal duties to become an air ambulance pilot.
Kensington Palace said Prince William will join the East Anglian Air Ambulance for a year, starting next spring, flying both day and night shifts. His salary for the year, believed to be in the region of £40,000, will be donated to charity.
A spokesman said the Duke was “hugely excited and motivated” by the role, adding that: “The duke sees this as a true form of public service, helping people in their most difficult times”.
William will begin training next month for his civilian pilot licence. Before he can take up his new position the Duke will have to pass 14 exams and a flight test.
During his tenure William will be working alongside medics to respond to emergencies in areas including Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire.
Prince William previously served with the RAF. In a book about RAF wives published earlier this year, his wife Kate Middleton wrote in the foreword: “I loved my time in Anglesey when William was serving with RAF search and rescue.
“I cannot pretend that I didn’t feel anxious at times when William was on shift in howling gales, knowing that he was out flying in extremely challenging conditions, but he loved doing it and I always felt incredibly proud of him.”
