Award-winning girls to meet Prince Harry

Grace, 13, from Sevenoaks, (left) is meeting the duke, along with nine-year-old Gwen

Two young girls from Surrey and Kent are set to meet Prince Harry before they receive awards for their resilience despite facing medical hurdles.

On Monday night in London, nine-year-old Gwen from Horley is receiving the Inspirational Child Award and 13-year-old Grace from Sevenoaks will get the Special Recognition Award as part of the WellChild Awards.

It is one of several engagements for Prince Harry during a visit to the UK - his first since April.

Grace was left paralysed from the chest down after her school bus was involved in a crash with a tractor in May 2024. She has been praised for her "extraordinary courage in rebuilding her life".

While Gwen is being recognised for her "zest for life" by the awards group despite facing complex medical challenges.

Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, Grace's mum Mel said: "She has just got to learn how to cope with her new body, how to do things all from using her upper body.

"It's tough to watch, but she's great, she takes it all in her stride and she doesn't complain and she just gets on with it."

Grace, who was nominated by nurse Laura Breen, said she was "really excited" to meet WellChild patron Prince Harry at a private reception ahead of the event.

Ms Breen, who works in the paediatric intensive care unit at King's College Hospital, said: "I have never cared for a child as inspiring as Grace."

The duke, who lives in the US with his wife Meghan and their children, has been a patron for Wellchild for 17 years.

The national children's charity aims to enable young people with complex medical needs to thrive at home.

Prince Harry has been WellChild patron for 17 years

Gwen was born with spina bifida, which is when a baby's spine and spinal cord does not develop properly in the womb.

At the age of five she moved from a special needs school to mainstream education, quickly becoming a much-loved member of her school community for her confidence, kindness and sense of humour.

A passionate wheelchair racer, Gwen trains twice a week and has already completed two one-mile races.

Gwen's mum Jenny, who nominated her for a WellChild Award, said: "Whether excelling in school, inspiring others through sports or championing a cause close to her heart, Gwen embodies the spirit of the WellChild Awards – refusing to let her medical needs limit her dreams and proving that, with determination, anything is possible."

Charlene Kemp, UK lead at award sponsor and sports and activity organisation app Spond, said: "Sponsoring the Inspirational Child 7–11 years category at the WellChild Awards is a privilege, and Gwen is a shining example of why we do it – she shows that passion and perseverance can overcome any obstacle."