The Prince and Princess of Wales have left a heartfelt gift for the family of Liz Hatton, the teenage photographer who sadly died from cancer last year.
In an interview with People, Liz's mum, Vicky Robayna, revealed that the royal couple gifted the family the Ice N Roses Early Rose. The flower's blooming date will be incredibly meaningful for the family, as it's due to flower around the anniversary of Liz's death from a rare form of blood cancer.
Speaking to the publication around her daughter's relationship with the royal couple, Vicky shared: "Liz always said they were two of the most genuine people she ever met, and I think they were just so kind and so down to earth. They were very good with both the children.
"Liz would have said that her favourite part of the whole experience was the way they were with Mateo [Liz's younger brother]. He was really shy and they had him chatting away at the end. She really loved them for that."
© Kensington PalaceShe added: "It felt like walking into an extended family and having arms wrapped around you."
Meeting Liz
William and Kate met Liz in October 2024 when the aspiring photographer was invited to take photos of the investitures happening at Windsor Castle at the time.
Through a friend in an air ambulance charity, William became aware of Liz's story and invited her to take the photos. Kate, who had been diagnosed with cancer earlier in the year, embraced Liz when the pair met each other.
© Shane Anthony SinclairFollowing the meeting, the Prince and Princess tweeted: "A pleasure to meet with Liz at Windsor today. A talented young photographer whose creativity and strength has inspired us both. Thank you for sharing your photos and story with us. W&C."
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Liz sadly passed away a month later, with the Prince and Princess paying tribute to the late teenager.
© Alamy Stock Photo"We are so sorry to hear that Liz Hatton has sadly passed away," they wrote on social media. "It was an honour to have met such a brave and humble young woman. Our thoughts and prayers are with Liz's parents Vicky and Aaron and her brother Mateo at this unimaginably difficult time. W & C."
The royal couple remained in touch with the family and invited them to Kate's annual carol service in December.
