Kate Middleton bonds with the Queen on Jubilee outing

Kate Middleton and the Queen looked like they were having a whale of a time in Nottingham yesterday

Kate Middleton may be the newest member of the Royal Family, but she certainly seems to be getting on well with the Queen.

The Duchess of Cambridge and the monarch looked like they were having a whale of a time yesterday, as they embarked on a Diamond Jubilee outing to Nottingham.

PICS: KATE MIDDLETON & THE QUEEN VISIT NOTTINGHAM

Prince William and Kate Middleton met the Queen from her royal train to begin a day of celebrations, including a trip to the school and tour of the city.

And clever Kate used the opportunity to bond with the Queen, staying at her side for most of the outing, and even sitting beside her to watch a school sports day.

During the event, the pair seemed to share a joke, with the Queen breaking into a wide smile, and Kate giggling along beside her.

In fact we don't think we've ever seen the monarch looking so happy! 

SEE Kate and the Queen here...

According to reports, Kate, who yesterday recycled an M Missoni coat for the outing, has been hard at work making friends with Prince William's family, using every available opportunity to get to know them better.

The Duchess happily chatted with several senior royals during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London, and also seems to have struck up a particular bond with brother-in-law Prince Harry.

In the past, Prince Harry has made no secret of his fondness of 'fantastic' Kate, revealing his delight at gaining a sister shortly after William and Kate got engaged in October 2010.

'I've got to know Kate pretty well, but now that she's becoming part of the family, I'm really looking forward to getting her under my wing - or she'll be taking me under her wing probably.

'She's a fantastic girl. She really is. My brother's very lucky, and she's very lucky to have my brother. I think the two of them are a perfect match.'

Are you pleased to see Kate Middleton making friends with the Queen? Let us know in the comments box below...

PICS: KATE MIDDLETON & THE QUEEN VISIT NOTTINGHAM

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