Prince Harry will return to London for a major event as Meghan Markle’s attendance hangs in the balance.
WellChild has announced that its patron, the Duke of Sussex, will be attending the national 2024 WellChild Awards, in association with GSK, taking place in the English capital on September 30.
The Awards are run by WellChild, the national charity for seriously ill children.
They celebrate the qualities of children and young people living with serious illnesses or complex medical needs and honour the dedication of those around them.
Prince Harry has been WellChild Patron for 16 years and has raised awareness and financial contributions to ensure the charity can improve the quality of life for seriously ill children and their families.
He has attended the WellChild Awards on 12 previous occasions and will spend time with each winner and their families at a pre-ceremony reception.
Prince Harry will then attend the ceremony and present the Award for Inspirational Child (aged four to six) and deliver a speech.
In a statement, the Duke of Sussex said: “I am once again honoured to attend this year’s WellChild Awards celebrating the remarkable courage and achievements of children living with complex medical needs.
Prince Harry speaking at the WellChild Awards in 2023
PA
“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.”
Prince Harry, who lives in the US with his wife and children, attended the awards show in 2023 without Meghan Markle.
It is unknown whether or not the Duchess of Sussex will join her husband at this year’s ceremony.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attending the WellChild Awards in 2019
PA
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the WellChild Awards in 2018
PA
In an interview with ITV earlier this year, the duke claimed he would “never” bring Meghan back to the UK out of fears for her safety.
The duke and duchess stepped back from their working royal roles in 2020 and settled in Montecito, California.
Prince Harry has repeatedly ruled out a return to royal life.
However, the father-of-two has retained several patronages in a personal capacity, including WellChild.