Duke and Duchess greeted by deluge and a dance on Canadian rainforest visit

  • Royal
The Duke and Duchess are spending eight days in Canada with their children. Credit: Dominic Lipinski / PA Wire

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge faced torrential downpours when they visited a Canadian rainforest in British Colombia.

William and Kate were forced to change some of their programme when heavy rain swamped the rural settlement of Bella Bella.

But they received a rapturous welcome from the small Heiltsuk First Nation community as they were treated to a welcoming dance.

A spokesman for the community said: "The welcoming dance performed was for royalty and is seen on very special occasions. It is performed every time there's anybody the community want to welcome and bring into the community as a sign of good faith."

The Duke and Duchess are spending eight days in Canada with their children. Credit: Dominic Lipinski / PA Wire
The Heiltsuk First Nation community performed a welcoming dance. Credit: Dominic Lipinski / PA Wire
William and Kate were honoured by the community as 'people of standing'. Credit: Dominic Lipinski / PA Wire

Later the royal couple will travel to nearby McLoughlin Bay, where the rainforest will be officially committed to the Queen's Commonwealth Canopy during a brief ceremony.

The royal visitors will also have an opportunity to see one of the new walking trails being constructed in the area.