Harry will appear at Diana event, but only after William has left
The brothers will take part in the Diana Legacy awards scheme, set up in honour of their mother, but their appearances will remain separate.
In a rare joint event the Prince of Wales and Duke of Sussex will reunite for a common cause to pay tribute to their late mother, albeit in separate appearances.
Prince William will attend the Diana Legacy Award event in person tonight (Thursday) at the Science Museum in London, where he will give a short speech and present awards to 20 recipients.
His brother, who lives in California, will then make a virtual appearance by joining a video call with the winners. However, Prince Harry’s involvement will take place only once William has departed.
Although both princes are understood to be committed to supporting the awards scheme, which was established to honour their late mother, their refusal to fully join forces highlights their rift.
A Kensington Palace spokesman said: “The Prince [of Wales] will meet key staff and supporters of the Diana Award, before joining the ceremony, where he will hear about the recipients’ work, make a short speech and present Legacy Awards to this year’s winners.”
At the end of the evening, the award recipients will then receive a video call from Harry, who is expected to make a short speech and talk to the winners. Dr Tessy Ojo, chief executive of the Diana Award, said: “It’s a privilege to have the support of both the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Sussex – particularly as we mark our 25th anniversary year.”
The Diana Awards take place annually but the Legacy Award event is held every two years to celebrate the achievements of 20 “exceptional young leaders who are inspiring the next generation to follow in Diana, Princess of Wales’s footsteps and make a positive difference to the world”.
Previously, the brothers have attended the awards ceremonies together. Since Harry left his full-time royal duties to start a new life in America, however, they have had separate arrangements in their involvement with the charity.
Last year Harry attended an event in person when it was held in Los Angeles, while William recorded a video. Meeting the recipients, Harry said: “As we come together, I am reminded of the profound belief my mother held in the transformative power of young people.”
In his video message, William said: “Your accomplishments are a testament to your passion and commitment to creating positive change. You are the torchbearers of hope and inspiration, lighting the way for others to follow.”
The Times
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