The Prince and Princess of Wales have paid tribute to a teenage photographer they met during an investiture at Windsor Castle.

Liz Hatton, who died yesterday, was pictured hugging Kate after the Princess invited her to take photos of the Prince of Wales at the event in October.

The 17-year-old from Harrogate started a photo wish list in January after she was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

She was given a life expectancy of six months to three years.

In a statement, William and Kate said: “We are so sorry to hear that Liz Hatton has sadly passed away. It was an honor to have met such a courageous and humble young woman.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Liz’s parents Vicky and Aaron and her brother Mateo during this unimaginably difficult time. W&C.”

Announcing her death on X, her mother Vicky Roboyna said: “Our incredible daughter Liz passed away in the early hours of this morning. She remained determined until the end.”

“She was still making plans yesterday. We are very proud of the kindness, compassion and courage she has shown over the last year.”

“Not only was she a phenomenal photographer, she was the best person and the most wonderful daughter and big sister we could ever ask for.”

“No one could have fought harder for life than she did. There’s a gaping, lizard-shaped hole in our lives and I’m not sure how we’ll ever fill it.”

She asked people to share one of Liz’s photos using the hashtag #LizHatton in honor and to support the family’s mission to fund research into desmoplastic small round cell tumors, which Liz was diagnosed with.

She has set up a JustGiving fundraising page with the aim of raising £100,000.

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In a personal message on social media after meeting Liz in October, William and Kate said: “It’s a pleasure to meet Liz in Windsor today.”

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

After ticking items off her bucket list, Liz photographed comedian Michael McIntyre, the red carpet at the MTV Europe Music Awards, the London Air Ambulances from a helipad and directed a fashion shoot with acclaimed photographer Rankin.