Duchess of Cambridge shows off 'mean right jab' as she dons boxing gloves for campaign launch

Laura Proto16 May 2016

The Duchess of Cambridge tried her hand at boxing today to prove a new campaign against mental health stigma could pack a punch.

Kate, alongside Princes William and Harry, laughed as she launched into a combination of punches during an event with the Olympic Park.

The Royals were joined by campaigners beneficiaries and ambassadors from a team of mental health organisations for the event.

And the Duchess was shown the ropes by former professional boxer Duke McKenzie as she launched the Heads Together campaign.

The drive is the biggest project the three royals have undertaken together and will see them working in partnership with a number of charities, including CALM and Mind.

Wills Kate and Harry try their hand at boxing launching Heads Together campaign

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It is aimed at ensuring people feel comfortable with their everyday mental wellbeing, feel able to support their friends and families through difficult times, and that stigma no longer prevents people getting the help they need.

Heads Together is also the 2017 Virgin London Marathon Charity of the Year.

Next year hundreds of runners are expected to hit the streets of London to help end stigma on mental health for good.

Mr McKenzie joked that Kate had a "mean right jab", adding: "She couldn't wait to get the gloves on and had a wicked punch.

"Boxing is fantastic for your mental state. It helps you to punch out your problems, the discipline is good and if you are healthy in body it helps you to be healthy in mind. It is great for getting out all your stress and focusing.

"Working with Mind is the one of the most rewarding thing I have ever done. I don't see myself as a coach or a mentor, I am just helping people work through their issues through the sport."

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