Prince Harry is 'honoured' to be making the return to the UK for this year's WellChild Awards (Image: Getty Images)

Prince Harry's UK return is 'true privilege' despite absence of Meghan and strained family relations

The Duke of Sussex, 40, is set to return to the UK on September 30 to attend the WellChild Awards, but he will have to do so without the support of his wife Meghan Markle

by · Daily Record

Royal fans are on tenterhooks as they anticipate Prince Harry's return to the UK for the WellChild Awards on September 30, with buzz building around the event and the noticeable absence of Meghan Markle. There's also been chatter about a potential rendezvous with his father, King Charles.

Despite facing the prospect of attending this significant occasion without his close circle to support him, and previous expressions of concern over security issues in the UK, Prince Harry appears undeterred and resolute in his commitment to the WellChild awards. The event holds special significance for him, not only in his capacity as a patron but also as a devoted dad to two little ones.

The charity, which provides vital assistance to families with seriously ill children, has remained one of his steadfast philanthropic endeavours, even after he stepped back from Royal duties and relocated to Montecito, California, with his family in 2020, reports the Mirror.

Prince Harry is set to return to the UK next week for the WellChild Awards (Image: Getty Images)

In a heartfelt statement, Prince Harry conveyed his pride in backing such an important cause, declaring himself "honoured" to acknowledge "the remarkable courage and achievements of children living with complex medical needs".

"These incredible young people, along with the dedicated caregivers, nurses, and professionals who tirelessly support them, inspire us all. It is a true privilege to recognise such extraordinary individuals," he added

The WellChild Awards are a heartfelt tribute to the inspiring courage of children faced with severe health challenges and the devotion of those around them, celebrating not only their remarkable spirit but also the ceaseless care they receive. Harry has proudly backed the charity for 16 years and often attends the grand celebrations, engaging directly with the brave youngsters and their support networks and delivering an address.

The Royal Family showed signs of thawing towards Harry when they wished him a happy birthday this week (Image: PA)

This time around, there's a strikingly personal note as Harry will take the stage to honour the Inspirational Child (aged 4-6), a category that resonates deeply given his son, Prince Archie, is only five years old himself.

While Prince Harry's presence at the WellChild Awards stands confirmed, it's yet unclear if this trip back to the UK might include a reunion with King Charles and Prince William amidst long-standing family rifts. Though relations seemed to thaw slightly on September 15 when the Royal trio marked Harry's 40th birthday with social media tributes, any prospect of a real thaw in their icy engagements is eyed with bated breath by Royal watchers and fans alike.

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