The Archbishop of Canterbury has praised the bravery of the Princess of Wales as she shared her cancer diagnosis.

The Most Reverend Justin Welby said his prayers were with Catherine, William and their children as they dealt with the news of the illness.

And he added ”I take this opportunity to praise her for her spirit of optimism in the face of such difficult news, and am pleased to hear that she is feeling stronger every day. Her bravery in sharing in this way and her continued commitment to supporting others speaks to her compassion and sense of service.”

In her statement, the Princess had reached out to others being treated, telling them ”you are not alone”.

The Archbishop of Canterbury also said ”I join the whole country, and the world, in praying for her full recovery.”

The Princess of Wales said that cancer had been found in tests following her major abdominal surgery in January.