Prince William has issued his first message in Welsh to mark St David's Day

William said in his message: "Hello. Today on St David's Day, we come together to celebrate Wales - its history, its culture, and its incredible people.

"From its breathtaking landscapes to its language, Wales continues to inspire.

"Today, we will be celebrate everything that is magical about Wales.

"To the people of Wales and everybody around the world, Happy St David's Day."

The 42-year-old royal has previously greeted people with words in Welsh but has never spoken the language fully in public before.

William - who was made Prince of Wales by his father King Charles following the death of Queen Elizabeth in 2022 - is said to be learning some conversational Welsh, although it is not known who is teaching him the language or if he has been going to classes.

The prince's message comes just days after he visited the town of Pontypridd in his first joint engagement with his wife Catherine, Princess of Wales for more than a year following her cancer treatment.

During the visit, Catherine praised William for his "amazing support" in what was a rare comment about her health ordeal.

Thought to be speaking to an elderly gentleman at Pontypridd Market, after he apparently mentioned William, Catherine said: "He's been amazing.

"We've felt the support from everyone, so it's meant a lot."

Meanwhile, as William spoke to one royal fan who he had met "a few years ago", he jokingly quipped: "I'm still as cheeky as ever."