William and Kate hail teenage award winners as 'shining lights'

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have met with inspirational young people at Kensington Palace ahead of BBC Radio 1's Teen Awards.

The royals welcomed teenagers and Radio 1 DJs Nick Grimshaw, Clara Amfo and Greg James into their home to praise them for their inspirational work after being crowned Teen Heroes of 2016.

Among those who met William and Kate at the special reception was 15-year-old Lewis who, despite his own health problems, has created a social platform for poorly and disabled children.

Lewis has been named one of Radio 1's Teen Heroes for raising over £20,000 for charities as well as launching his Friend Finder website.

Niamh, 15, who has a rare auto-immune illness called neuromyelitis optica (NMO), is a children's ambassador for the NMO UK charity and helps to raise awareness of her condition with a blog while running a support group for young people.

Radio 1 Teen Hero 1 Million Hours Award winners Joe, 17, and Toby, 15 - both active volunteers and fundraisers for Cancer Research UK - were also at the reception.

Kate told the teenagers: "I don't know how all of you find the time to do the volunteering. It's such a great thing... Keep it up."

William added: "Massive congratulations, it's seriously impressive."

He went on to praise them as "shining lights" for their age group before awarding them with Teen Hero badges.

Radio 1's Teen Heroes will be honoured at the seventh annual awards ceremony on Sunday at London's SSE Arena, Wembley.

The event celebrates the selflessness and bravery of the UK's young unsung heroes and their exceptional achievements.

Stars in the music, entertainment, online and sporting industries will also be honoured at the ceremony.

The star-studded event will be hosted by BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show host Grimshaw.

Music acts Little Mix, Jess Glynne, DNCE and The Vamps will be performing along with special guests.

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