Princess Kate shares touching tribute to young photographer who died of rare and incurable cancer aged just 17

Princess Kate has shared a touching tribute to the young photographer who died from a rare, incurable cancer aged just 17.

Liz Hutton died in the early hours of yesterday at her home in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

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Hatton was photographed hugging Kate at Windsor Castle in October after she was invited to take photos of the Prince of Wales at the investiture.

Princess Kate said in her condolences: “We are very sorry to hear of Liz Hutton’s death.

“It was an honor to meet this brave and humble young woman.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Liz’s parents, Vicki and Aaron and her brother Matteo, at this unimaginably difficult time.”

The photo of the couple embracing touched the hearts of many, with Kate praising the teenager for inspiring her and husband William with her strength and creativity.

The event also marks the Princess of Wales's return to work after her own battle with cancer this year.

Kate, who works as a photographer herself, told the nation she had cancer in March and stepped down after the announcement.

Hatton's sad death comes less than a year after she was diagnosed with a rare and incurable form of cancer.

Her mother posted a tribute to X on Wednesday evening, saying her daughter remained determined until the end.

“We are so proud of the kindness, compassion and courage she has shown this past year,” Vicki Robina said.

“She was not only an amazing photographer, she was the best human being, and the most amazing daughter and big sister we could ever ask for.

“No one could have fought harder for life than I did.”

Hatton started her photography calling list in January after being diagnosed with cancer.

She was invited to Windsor Castle to photograph an investiture ball William was holding after word reached the prince about her dream.

Surprisingly, she asked to have tea with the royal couple afterwards as she was snapped hugging Kate.

The royal posted about the meeting: “Delighted to meet Liz in Windsor today.

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

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Hatton was joined at the castle by mum Robina, her husband Aaron and his brother Matteo.

She posted about the encounter, saying: “These are such kind, honest, and kind people. I feel so happy that my family and I had this experience.”

“It was an absolute pleasure to meet everyone and take photos today in Windsor, it was a great honor and a dream come true, so I really hope to be part of any and all future events!”

Hatton was diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell tumor in January, giving him between six months and three years to live.

Her bucket list included a number of different types of photography that she wanted to complete before she died.

Hatton also photographed the film's premiere, London Fashion Week, and the Royal Variety Show.

William learned about it through the London Air Ambulance charity, of which he is a patron.

Kate returned to work just days after revealing she had completed her chemotherapy.

Kate spoke about her battle with cancer, saying the end of her treatment was a “relief”: “The last nine months have been very difficult for us as a family.”

She also pledged to stay “side by side” with others fighting the disease.

Robayna set up a GoFundMe for her daughter, which raised £50,000, destroying the £25,000 target.

She then set up another fundraising campaign to raise £100,000 to donate to research into the rare form of cancer.

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