Granny was always there for us.. the memories will last a lifetime

PRINCE William honoured his beloved grandmother in a moving tribute telling how the Queen steered him through his saddest days and his happiest ones.

- RUSSELL MYERS

The Prince of Wales, 40, told of his gratitude for the vital guidance the late monarch gave to him, to wife Kate, the Princess of Wales and to their three children, which will show them the way as their royal roles develop.

The Queen stayed with William and brother Prince Harry at Balmoral in the days after their mother Princess Diana died in 1997, when William was just 15.

And William’s statement, released yesterday, underlined the importance of her decision to put her young grandsons first as they processed their grief.

He said: “On Thursday, the world lost an extraordinary leader, whose commitment to the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth was absolute.

“So much will be said in the days ahead about the meaning of her historic reign. I, however, have lost a grandmother. And while I will grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful.

“I have had the benefit of The Queen’s wisdom and reassurance into my fifth decade. My wife has had 20 years of her guidance and support.