Prince William has made his first public comments on the health issues faced by The King and The Princess of Wales.

The Prince spoke out as he arrived at a gala dinner for the London Air Ambulance.

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It was the first time William has addressed the situation affecting his wife since Catherine was admitted to hospital in mid January for major surgery which required a two week inpatient stay and will see her recuperate at home for at least two months. His remarks were also the first time he has spoken about his father since Charles III revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer.

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Walking into the gala event, the heir to the throne said ”we really appreciate everyone’s kind messages, thank you.”

Prince William had earlier returned to royal duties when he held an investiture at Windsor Castle.

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He has taken a step back for the past three weeks to be with the Princess of Wales following her abdominal surgery and to look after their three children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and 5 year old Prince Louis.

And he ended his first day back in glittering company as Hollywood star, Tom Cruise, joined him at the gala.