Prince Harry writes a heartwarming tribute to Princess Diana in a new book for bereaved children

Prince Harry has written a tribute to his late mother, Princess Diana, in a book designed for children who have lost parents to Covid-19.

·    Prince Harry wrote the message about his mother in Hospital by the Hill, written by Chris Connaughton.

·    The Duke of Sussex said 'you are not alone' before sharing his experience of loss.

·    In other royal news, Prince William and Kate Middleton delighted the father of paramedic Jay Khan when they surprised him on a video call.

Harry, who lost his mother when he was just 12-years-old started the foreword with: "If you are reading this book, it's because you've lost your parent or a loved one, and while I wish I was able to hug you right now, I hope this story is able to provide you comfort in knowing that you're not alone.

The Duke, who spoke about Princess Diana in the much anticipated Oprah interview, said about his loss: "When I was a young boy I lost my mum. At the time I didn't want to believe it or accept it, and it left a huge hole inside of me. I know how you feel, and I want to assure you that over time that hole will be filled with so much love and support."

He then went on to give some hope: "We all cope with loss in a different way, but when a parent goes to heaven, I was told their spirit, their love and the memories of them do not. They are always with you and you can hold onto them forever. I find this to be true."

The book, written by children's author Chris Connaughton, and illustrated by Fay Troote is the story of a young person who is dealing with the loss of their mother, who worked as a frontline worker during the pandemic.

More from woman&home:

Prince Harry finishes his foreword with some reassuring words: "You may feel alone, you may feel sad, you may feel angry, you may feel bad. This feeling will pass. And I will make a promise to you – you will feel better and stronger once you are ready to talk about how it makes you feel. I hope this book helps remind you of just how special your parent or loved one was. And how special you are too."

The book, which is free for all children who have lost a parent, marks National Day of Reflection day on Tuesday. Author Chris Connaughton said of the book: "I wanted it to provide a connection, support and hope through the hard and horrible times of bereavement. It’s also a tremendous honour - and a service to young people - to have The Duke of Sussex support this project and share his open, heartfelt and honest words with kids across the country."