The Duchess of Cambridge has admitted she fears for Prince William's safety every time he embarks on a search-and-rescue helicopter mission.

Kate made the confession to a fellow service wife during the couple's first official visit to Canada, according to The Sunday Mirror.

The royal reportedly told former army private Celine Drapeau: "I always worry when William goes off on a mission. I find it very difficult. You always fear for them, not knowing if something is going to happen, and it can be very hard."

However, the Duchess made it clear that she supports The Duke of Cambridge in his role as a helicopter pilot.

"It is very hard. But my job is to support my husband. You should always support your husband," she added.

The comments were reportedly made when William and Kate spoke to service veterans after laying wreaths at the national war memorial in Ottawa.

Mrs Drapeau, 52, who told Kate she worried about her military policeman husband Daniel when he was on duty, told The Sunday Mirror: "I thought it was very brave of Kate to be so honest with me. It was a great comfort to know that she understands what service families go through."

William, 29, who is based in Anglesey, has been involved in a number of rescue missions since starting his role.

In the week after his wedding he was on board an RAF Sea King helicopter which airlifted a 70-year-old walker in Snowdonia.