A speech by Prince William at a reception for the Child Bereavement Charity, London

Thank you, Julia for your very kind words.

As you have just said, my mother, Diana, was present at your launch 15 years ago and, today, I am incredibly proud to be able to continue her support of such an extraordinary charity by becoming your Royal Patron.

What my mother recognised then - and what I understand now - is that losing a close family member is one of the hardest experiences that anyone can ever endure.

Never being able to say the word ‘mummy’ again in your life sounds like a small thing. However, for many, including me, it is now really just a word – hollow and evoking only memories.

I can therefore wholeheartedly relate to the Mother’s Day Campaign as I too have felt – and still feel – the emptiness on such a day as Mother’s Day.

The Child Bereavement Charity reaches out to people, working closely with families to provide support and counselling at the time when they most need it in their lives.

It also offers vital guidance in this sensitive and incredibly delicate area to teachers and health professionals working with grieving families. It is so very special.

As your new Royal Patron, I am delighted to lend my support to your Mother’s Day campaign, and I look forward to working with you for many years to come.