Prince Harry writes to bereaved military children

The Duke of Sussex says grief is "nothing to be ashamed of"

Prince Harry has written an emotional letter to bereaved children who have lost a parent while serving in the British Armed Forces.

Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, the Duke of Sussex told them that grief was "nothing to be ashamed of" and that losing a parent was "immensely difficult".

Prince Harry sent the letter through Scotty's Little Soldiers, a charity based in King's Lynn, Norfolk.

He recently became the charity's first global ambassador, having supported the cause since 2017.

Charity founder Nikki Scott said: "Having been bereaved as a child himself and having served in the British Armed Forces, including deploying to Afghanistan, Prince Harry resonates with our members.

"They know he truly understands them and the challenges they face as bereaved military children."

Prince Harry says it is "an honour" to be part of Scotty's Little Soldiers

Last Christmas, Prince Harry, who was aged 12 when his mother Princess Diana died, dressed up as Spiderman in a special video for Scotty's Little Soldiers.

He said: "I am here to assure you that our parents always want us to have fun, OK? So don't feel guilty."

Prince Harry told Scotty's Little Soldiers to "go out there, have the best time, and Merry Christmas"

Ms Scott said that November was often “a proud but emotional time” for bereaved military children as Remembrance events highlight the ultimate sacrifice paid by members of the Armed Forces.

Prince Harry's letter added: "Don't forget you also deserve to feel happiness – your parent would want that, trust me.

"On this Remembrance Sunday, I hope you carry a sense of pride for your mum or dad, as they do for you, with the understanding that they will never be forgotten."

Children supported by Scotty's Little Soldiers are set to take part in Remembrance Sunday events in London.