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Prince William, Kate Middleton Brave Rain at Last Pre-Wedding Events

Prince William and Kate Middleton

With just 18 days to go until they say "I Do," Prince William and Kate Middleton made their final public appearance as a couple in England on Monday.

Braving the rainy weather, William, 28, and Middleton, 29, were met by nearly 2,000 well-wishers in the streets of Darwen in Lancashire.

PHOTOS: William and Kate's post-engagement events

Keeping with tradition, Middleton — who wore a vintage Amanda Wakeley suit — walked a step behind her future husband (just as Prince Philip has to walk behind The Queen).

The first stop on the couple's day-long visit? A midday arrival at the opening of the Darwen Aldridge Community Academy. Despite the dismal weather, William and his future wife smiled and waved to the crowd from under the safety of their umbrellas.

Related: PHOTOS: Kate Middleton's princess prep

The two were greeted by the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Sheila Williams, the chief executive of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, Graham Burgess, and Rossendale and Darwen MP, Jake Berry.

William is scheduled to officially open the school, where he will also launch the SkillForce Prince's Award before addressing the students, parents, governors and staff.

Related: PHOTOS: Harry and William as kids

Their second and final stop of the day will be at the nearby Witton Country Park in Blackburn, where thousands of fans are already awaiting their arrival. While there, they will observe a series of sporting events and meet with a group of athletes and coaches.

Related: PHOTOS: William and Kate's road to romance

William is patron of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, an initiative which protects 2,012 outdoor recreational spaces across the U.K., stressing the importance of green spaces for sport.

For more on the Royal Wedding, including rare photos, interviews with family and friends, details on Kate's new life as a princess and a tour of their lavish homes, order a copy of Us Weekly's Will & Kate: The Royal Wedding now.

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