Duchess comforts families of sick children

Kate Middleton has comforted a mother struggling with a sick child, while on an official visit to the newly-built Ronald McDonald house in London.

The 59-bedroom accommodation is available for families who have sick children, allowing them stay close to Evalina Hospital while their child is being treated.

During the visit, Kate met mother Rebecca Bridges-Wheeler, whose son Lewis was born premature at just 23 weeks.

"I got a bit emotional talking to Kate," Bridges-Wheeler told MailOnline. "She stopped talking and let me compose myself. You could see the sympathy in her eyes, she was so warm and down-to-earth."

Kate also struck up a conversation with Bridges-Wheeler's other 4-year-old son, James, who asked the Duchess of Cambridge about George's whereabouts.

"George? I should have brought him," Kate replied. "He's at his Montessori nursery today making pancakes."

James continued the conversation, telling Kate "there's a thunderstorm coming".

"Yes, I know all about those. George likes storms, too," she replied.

This visit to the Ronald McDonald house follows her glamorous appearance at a Buckingham Palace event earlier this week.

All the royals were present at the UK-India Year of Culture reception, but eyes were on the Duchess of Cambridge and her dazzling outfit.

Kate wore a mid-length Erdem dress that retailed for about $1500 (which quickly sold out) and a pair of Oscar de la Renta shoes.