
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will present a special award to NHS frontline workers during this year’s Pride of Britain Awards.
“We cannot thank you enough,” William said in a pre-taped segment filmed at St Bart’s Hospital last week. “On behalf of a grateful nation, it is a tremendous honour for Catherine and I to present this Special Recognition Award to the army of dedicated NHS staff.”
The Daily Mirror, which hosts the Pride of Britain Awards, shared exclusive details about William and Kate’s segment on Wednesday, including how the award will be presented to six workers on behalf of the entire NHS.
Introduced by television presenter Kate Garraway, William and Kate presented the award to a porter, a physiotherapist, an I.T.U matron, an I.T.U. Consultant, a Chemotherapy Navigator and a Theatre Nurse.
“The devastating impact of the pandemic has reminded us as a nation of how much we owe to the thousands of NHS workers who have gone far beyond the call of duty this year.
“They’ve worked tirelessly, with humility and compassion, in the most challenging of circumstances, putting their own lives on the line to help others.”
William added, “It is fitting we are at Britain’s oldest hospital to thank and celebrate NHS staff and honour them with a Pride of Britain Award.” St Bart’s Hospital was founded in 1123.
Kate said that the couple were inspired by the stories they’ve heard from frontline workers. “Through our conversations with frontline workers during the pandemic, we have been inspired by their stories of bravery and selflessness.”
She added, “Many had to leave their families for weeks on end, some have come out of retirement to help, others have stepped into new roles to play their part in the fight against coronavirus.
“Their hard work still goes on and we remain indebted to them.”
The Pride of Britain Awards honours people from all over the country every year for their contributions to the betterment of public life. The awards ceremony will air this Sunday night on ITV.