He has been volunteering at Shout 85258, which offers support via text message to people in personal crisis. Prince William said he had been answering messages after being trained by the mental health charity.

Last month he told fellow volunteers in a video call: "I'm going to share a little secret with you guys, but I'm actually on the platform volunteering."

Those texting the round-the-clock service would not know they are talking to a member of the Royal Family - like Shout's 2,000 volunteers, William would use a pseudonym on the platform.

Kensington Palace announced the prince's involvement to mark Volunteers Week, which ends on Sunday.

A new photograph of the duke with Prince George and Princess Charlotte volunteering on the Sandringham Estate, taken by the Duchess of Cambridge, has also been released.

The Queen has praised the work of volunteers in a special message, saying: "As Volunteers' Week draws to a close, it is inspiring to reflect on the many thousands of people, who through their acts of generosity and kindness, have achieved so much for the greater good."

"I have been following with interest how men and women from around the world, including my own family, have been helping and recognising the vital role of the volunteer."

"I send my best wishes to all those who give themselves so freely and selflessly in the service of others."

The Cambridges and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex helped to launch Shout 85258 last year - investing £3m in the service via their Royal Foundation.

In a little over a year since then, more than 300,000 text conversations have been had on the service.

Around 65% of those texting are aged under 25, the charity said, with many messengers seeking mental health support.

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