Prince William praises ‘compassion’ as he opens up about cause ‘close to his heart’

father-of-three thanked the public for their “compassion and generosity” in raising millions for good causes during the BBC’s Comic Relief fundraising event.

In a pre-recorded message for the show, the Duke of Cambridge highlighted how the money raised would be spent on the UK’s mental health.

The father-of-three said it would ensure “help is at hand when things become too much for people.”

Last year, the Duke starred in a Blackadder sketch with Stephen Fry during the BBC’s Big Night In, which raised more than £74million for the show, BBC Children in Need as well as the National Emergencies Trust, which he is a patron.

Speaking on Friday evening, Prince William said in his video message: “Many of you will be as relieved as I am that I’m not doing another comedy sketch like I did last year for the Big Night In.

“Your incredible generosity raised over £74 million for so many brilliant charities, including the National Emergencies Trust, at a time when Covid was first really taking its toll. Thank you all so much.

“Of course, while the vaccine gives us much hope for the future, we are all still dealing with the fall-out from the pandemic.

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“And I’m particularly pleased that Comic Relief continues to fund so many projects that support people’s mental health, which has come under particular strain over the past year.”

He continued: “This is a subject that is very close to my heart and it’s wonderful to know that your support tonight will make sure that there is help at hand when things become too much for people.

“Thank you for your compassion and generosity. Mental health is complex – and for those incredibly hard-working people on the front line it’s a challenge they’ve sadly encountered all too often.”

His message introduced a film that highlighted the increase in the number of people experiencing mental health issues over the past 12 months.

It also shed light on the support being given by organisations and charities funded by Comic Relief.

Comic Relief’s Night of TV was hosted by presenters Davina McCall and Paddy McGuinness, comedian Sir Lenny Henry and singer Alesha Dixon.