The Duke of Sussex has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II on the eve of the first anniversary of her death, telling young charity award winners she would be looking down on them.
Prince Harry praised seriously ill children being honoured at the WellChild awards a year after he was forced to pull out of the annual event, travelling to Balmoral as the late monarch’s family gathered.
He told guests: “As you know, I was unable to attend the awards last year as my grandmother passed away. As you also probably know, she would have been the first person to insist I still come to be with you all instead of going to her, and that’s precisely why I know, exactly one year on, she is looking down on all of us tonight – happy we are together – continuing to spotlight such an incredible community.”
Watch the moment in the clip below…
The Duke, who has been patron of the national charity for seriously ill children since 2007, also paid tribute to the youngsters, telling them: “It’s wonderful to be here at the 18th annual WellChild Awards – a night I personally look forward to each year because I get to be with you.
“Tonight, we meet to celebrate the tremendous strength and spirit of children and young people across the UK and the individuals who are transforming at home care for thousands.
“Your collective stories of strength, compassion and perseverance are inspiring to not only those in this room, but many far and wide. You have set the bar and raised it time and time again, and I am so humbled to stand before you as I strive to convey your impact in words.”
Harry also referred to his own family back in California, raising a laugh from his audience by saying: “As a father of two – and three dogs, so basically five – I’m acutely aware of the many joys and challenges that come with parenting. And that’s with kids who aren’t facing health challenges. So to the parent carers in the room, you have my sincerest admiration and respect.”
Harry’s poignant speech came after he presented the award for Inspirational Child (aged 4 to 6) to Violet Seymour, six.
