The Duke of Sussex made his first appearance since returning to the UK on Monday.

Prince Harry, 36, surprised recipients at the virtual Diana Award ceremony in a video message, which appears to have been pre-recorded at his and Meghan's Montecito home. 

He began by saying: "I'd like to start by acknowledging and celebrating the incredible young people joining us today. And wherever you are right now, I want to thank you for being part of this important moment and for being such a valuable asset to your community.

"I'm truly honoured to be celebrating your work, your commitment to change-making and the vital role that you've taken on representing a new generation of humanitarianism."

The Duke landed in the UK last Friday ahead of the unveiling of a statue of Diana, Princess of Wales at Kensington Palace on Thursday.

Harry will be reunited with his brother, Prince William, at the unveiling on 1 July – which would have marked their mother's 60th birthday.

He continued: "Later this week, my brother and I are recognising what would have been our mum's 60th birthday, and she would be so proud of you all for living authentic life with purpose and with compassion for others.

"Our mum believed that young people have the power to change the world. She believed in your strength because she saw it day in and day out and in the faces of young people exactly like you, she witnessed a boundless enthusiasm and passion.