There's been rumours of a rift between Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle with Palace aides saying both women are very different people and hardly get along.

But the women put whatever differences they may have behind them and put up a united front on Christmas day.

The royal wives were pictured as they arrived church together with their husbands and other members of the royal family for the Christmas Day church service at Sandringham.

The joint appearance of the "fab four" - as Prince William, Prince Harry and their wives are called - is the first time they have been seen together in public since rumours emerged of a rift between the Cambridge and Sussex households.

All eyes were on the sisters-in-law as they made their way into St Mary Magdalene Church in Norfolk after the Queen had made Prince William and Kate Middleton to abandon their plans to spend Christmas with Kate's family so they can bond with Meghan Markle over Christmas.

Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle pictured showing affection to each other amidst rumors of a rift

Rather than look angry about it, Kate, 36, was her ever-gracious self and happily chatted to Meghan, 37, as they walked into church.

Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle pictured showing affection to each other amidst rumors of a rift

Then, as they left church, Meghan put her hand on Kate’s back and the Duchess of Cambridge happily leant in as royal watchers watched their every move. Both women's body language appeared relaxed.

Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle pictured showing affection to each other amidst rumors of a rift

Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle pictured showing affection to each other amidst rumors of a rift