BBC News presenter Sophie Raworth praised for her compassionate coverage of Princess Kate’s cancer diagnosis

BBC News presenter Sophie Raworth has been praised for her handling of the news that Princess Kate has been diagnosed with cancer. 

The sombre newscaster revealed the shock news to the world at 6pm on Friday when Kate spoke out in a brave video message.

Speaking to millions of Brits, Sophie explained: “Here now is a very personal message from her which has just been released in which she explains what has been happening in recent weeks.”

In the video, the royal, 42, said the diagnosis had come as a “huge shock” – but vowed: “I am well and getting stronger every day”.

More from Kate’s emotional message…

• Kate reveals she’s being treated for cancer
• Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wish Kate ‘health and healing’
• Kate’s family share childhood photo and break silence
• King Charles says he’s ‘so proud’ of his daughter-in-law
• The Princess won’t return to royal duties until she’s cleared
• ‘William is by my side’ says Kate in shock cancer statement
• Kate’s diagnosis ‘was reason Will pulled out of service’
• Experts slam trolls who caused her more pain at a difficult time

Her diagnosis is the second the royal family has faced since King Charles revealed he was undergoing treatment for cancer.

After Kate’s clip royal fans rushed to social media to praise the Beeb newscaster. 

One person wrote: “Have to say the professionalism of Sophia Raworthand the whole BBCteam tonight was incredible as two major stories broke as the programme went on air – Kate and the Moscow concert hall attack.”

Another said: “Two big news stories breaking at the same time on a Friday night, whilst BBC News is on air. 

“Impressively handled by Sophie Raworth.”

Kate has remained absent from any official duties following major abdominal surgery in January.

Her diagnosis is the second cancer shock to hit the royal family in as many months after King Charles revealed he was also undergoing treatment.

He praised Kate for her “courage” in a statement from Buckingham Palace.

The “proud” King also remains in close contact with his “beloved daughter-in-law” and both he and Camilla will “continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time’.”

Kate’s brother James Middleton also shared a touching picture and message to his sister after the shock diagnosis was revealed.

He wrote: “Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too.”

Kate said she initially had no signs of cancer but post-op tests showed the disease had been “present”.

She has chosen not to reveal what type of cancer she has but said she is in the early stages of treatment.

Sitting on a bench at Windsor for the poignant clip, the royal thanked her husband Prince William for his support.

Her voice also cracked as she said she had broken the news to George, 10, Charlotte, 8, and five-year-old Louis.

The Princess of Wales added: “This of course came as a huge shock. William and I have been doing everything I can to process this privately for the sake of our young family. As you can imagine this has taken time. It has taken time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.

“Most importantly it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them and to reassure them that I am going to be OK.

“As I have said to them, I am well and I’m getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal in my mind, body and spirit.

“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”