May 1st, 2010
Prince William and Kate Middleton requested charitable gifts in lieu of wedding presents, seeking to pre-empt the tide of extravagant - and unusual - offerings that typically flood in for a royal engagement.
The palace said the couple was "touched by the goodwill shown them," and selected 26 charities in Britain, New Zealand, Canada and Australia to benefit from a special charity gift fund. The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary has been selected amongst the recipients.
"They are charities that have a particular resonance with Prince William and Miss Middleton and reflect issues in which the couple have been particularly interested in their lives to date," Clarence House said in a statement.