Kate’s dignity shames social media snipers

THE outpouring of love and support for the Princess ofwales demonstrates the place she has won at the heart of our nation.

She has long been cherished for her empathy, beauty and grace but will now be equally admired for her courage, strength and dignity.

It would be frightening enough for any young mother to receive a cancer diagnosis.

To have then been a target of social media trolls peddling vile conspiracy theories must have added to her feeling of devastation.

Others may have wallowed in sorrow and anger, and used it to portray themselves as a victim. But with characteristic compassion, Kate seized the opportunity to offer reassurance to others whose lives have been blighted by cancer.

There was not a trace of self-pity in the video message broadcast to a stunned nation on

Friday. She could have embarked on a rant against the social media giants which profit from the global distribution of salacious rumours.

Instead, she chose to talk openly about her own treatment and remind millions of others worldwide who will undergo chemotherapy that they are not alone and should not lose hope.

This is a princess who prefers to focus on the good in people, thanking them for their “wonderful” messages of support.

With every word, Kate exemplified the selfless devotion to the service of others which won the late Queen Elizabeth II the enduring love of the nation.we have every confidence this princess will one day be a magnificent Queen.

Other privileged public figures who seldom miss an opportunity to air grievances, snipe at their enemies or moan about perceived slights could learn valuable lessons from Kate’s fusion of personal stoicism with gracious compassion.

We must hope that one day the twin evils of cancer and social media hatred will be defeated.

For now, the Princess of Wales and her family deserve their Easter break.and they take with them the warmest wishes of us all.