Prince William pays tribute to ‘compassionate’ mother Diana in touching speech before Harry’s appearance

Prince Harry is still expected to attend the event, which is being held at the Science Museum in London, via a video call tonight.

The Prince of Wales made the speech in person to mark the charity’s 25th anniversary and to present awards to 20 recipients.

William hailed his mother’s qualities – courage, compassion and commitment- during the event he and his brother Harry have attended many times together.

The prince’s speech began: “I’m thoroughly delighted to be here today to recognise the transformational achievements of twenty exceptional young people from across the world.

“Each and every one of their stories – which you will hear shortly - are testament to their character, their passion and their determination to make a lasting and meaningful difference to the lives of others.

“The paths taken by these young people have not always been easy. Many have overcome adversity and prejudice, but they are driven by courage, compassion and commitment – qualities shared by my mother.”

Prince William also mentioned his and Princess Kate’s dedication to using Diana’s legacy throughout their work.

He said: "That legacy is something that both Catherine and I have sought to focus on through our work, as have the 50,000 young people who have received a Diana Award over the past 25 years."

The awards were set up in memory of Prince William and Harry's mother, Princess Diana, and her “belief that young people have the power to change the world.”

The prince continued: "Their stories remind us of the importance of organisations like The Diana Award.

"I’ve seen on many occasions over the years how this charity empowers and mobilises young people to take action and make the changes they want to see in their communities and in the world around them.

"But this evening’s Legacy Award is particularly special as it marks the 25th Anniversary year of The Diana Award – a charity set up to reflect my mother’s belief that young people can change the world."

Recipients of the Legacy Award receive professional support to enhance their social action work to continue to inspire young people around the globe.

Princess Diana was known for her incredible charity work and her empathy and sympathy for those in need.

The princess was very open about mental health issues during a time where there was a stigma surrounding mental health.

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Diana was also president of over 100 charities including Help The Aged, now AgeUK and Barnardo’s.

The prince concluded: "I know that she would have been honoured to see a charity in her name doing such inspirational work to uplift young people from all corners of the globe.

"She taught me that everyone has the potential to give something back, that everyone in need deserves a supporting hand in life.

"I am incredibly proud to see this manifested in the amazing young people receiving the Legacy Award tonight."