Teenager with cancer says it was ‘mind-blowing’ to hug Kate at Windsor Castle

An aspiring photographer with a rare form of cancer has said it was ‘mind-blowing’ to hug the Princess of Wales at Windsor Castle.

Liz Hatton, 16, was hugged by Kate, who has completed chemotherapy following her own cancer diagnosis, after she was invited by the Prince of Wales to take pictures at an investiture ceremony on Wednesday.

Liz, from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, said she was “very thankful” to get the opportunity.

Discussing the meeting Kate and William, she told the PA news agency: “It was quite a mind-blowing, overwhelming experience, to be honest.

“None of us really expected all the stuff that would happen, but I think we all just feel very honoured and amazed that it actually happened.”

Her mother, Vicky Robayna, said the royal couple “spent a lot of time talking about photography and about things that Liz enjoyed”.

Ms Robayna added: “They were just very kind and welcoming and thoughtful.”

She said Liz’s family were “proud of her every day for everything she does”.

Ms Robayna said: “Yesterday was incredible in every single way, and her photos are gorgeous.

“I think what yesterday did was give the world a chance to see what we see every day – that she is brilliant and brave and talented.

“The whole team at Windsor Castle went completely out of their way to make it the most incredible experience possible for her and really looked after all of us for every single moment of the day, and we can’t thank them enough.”

Liz began a photography bucket list after being diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell tumour in January.

The teenager said: “The list came about when I was diagnosed because I wanted to go to LA to see my favourite photographer.

“But that became impossible due to the rarity of my cancer, as nobody would give us insurance.

“So instead, my mum put out a list on Twitter with various things I might like to photograph.”

Ms Robayna said the list included photographing a show at a fashion week, a major film being produced, and backstage at a musical.

However, she joked that none of them were “as grand as meeting with the princess”.

Ms Robayna said doctors told her earlier this year that her daughter had between six months and three years to live.

Kensington Palace said William found out about Liz through the London Air Ambulance Charity of which he is patron.

Liz was then invited by the prince to take photos of investiture recipients receiving their honours from William.

Some of her images were shared on Kensington Palace’s social media including photos of cyclist Sir Mark Cavendish with the prince, and footballer Karen Carney.

In a personal message posted on social media on Wednesday, William and Kate said: “A pleasure to meet with Liz at Windsor today.

“A talented young photographer whose creativity and strength has inspired us both. Thank you for sharing your photos and story with us. W&C.”

Kate, wearing her hair down with gold earrings, was dressed in a burgundy trouser suit and beige top when pictured embracing Liz.

The prince and princess also posed for a group shot with Liz’s family – her mother Vicky, stepfather Aaron and brother Mateo.