Ellen White awarded MBE at Windsor Castle

The Aylesbury-born former England player has been recognised for her services to football

Author: Ellie CloutePublished 7th Feb 2024

The Prince of Wales has returned to his royal duties, following the announcement of the King's cancer diagnosis, and his wife's planned abdominal operation.

An investiture ceremony, hosted by Prince William's been held this morning at Windsor Castle, awarding honours to recipients before later attending a gala for the London's Air Ambulance Charity.

Among those recognised is former England footballer Ellen White.

The Aylesbury-born footballer has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire, recognising her services to football.

The record-scoring Lioness from Glossop was a member of the Euro 2022 squad. The team won the tournament the same year.

Ellen White said she sent her "best wishes" to the King when speaking with the Prince of Wales.

She told the PA news agency: "I sent my best wishes to the King.

"I just think, you know, it must be a difficult time for the family.

Other recipients due at the ceremony include David Shreeve - who co-founded an environmental action group with TV botanist David Bellamy - and Francis Dickinson - who solved an 80-year-old maritime mystery by locating the wreck of a submarine which was lost at sea during the Second World War.

This evening, Prince William is due to attend a gala, fundraising for London's Air Ambulance Charity in central London.

William's taking over many royal responsibilities, following Buckingham Palace's announcement of the King's cancer diagnosis.

It's been confirmed the King does not have prostate cancer, with the Palace's statement saying only that he has a "form of cancer".

He was diagnosed after a "separate issue of concern was noted" and investigated while he was being treated for his benign enlarged prostate.

Whilst the King made the decision to share his diagnosis, in the hope of raising awareness and positively impacting others, the Palace is calling for the King's privacy to be respected.

His Majesty's been advised to postpone his public-facing duties, however he will continue to do state business and official paperwork.

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