Prince Harry is to host his first ever garden party at Buckingham Palace on May 30.

Prince Harry

Prince Harry

The 32-year-old royal has been given the go-ahead by his grandmother Queen Elizabeth to put on the summery event by the Not Forgotten Association for ex-servicemen and women.

Guests will be able to enjoy cups of tea, sandwiches and canapés at the annual bash held by the organisation, which puts on events and leisure activities for those who have been wounded or have disabilities after serving in the army.

Harry recently spoke of the importance of "recognising the sacrifice" made by soldiers across the world.

He urged people to take notice and realise the huge "debt" we owe the armed services for their work in protecting the country.

Speaking about the Walking With The Wounded expedition, he previously said: "This extraordinary expedition will raise awareness of the debt that this country owes to those it sends off to fight - only for them to return wounded and scarred, physically and emotionally.

"The debt extends beyond immediate medical care and short-term rehabilitation. These men and women have given so much. We must recognise their sacrifice, be thankful, so far as we can ever repay them for it."

Harry also runs the Invictus Games, a multi-sport event he runs for wounded or sick armed services personnel and veterans to partake in.

This year they will take place in Toronto, Canada from September 23 - 30, 2017.

This year it will feature up to 550 members of the armed forces from 17 countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mike Burns, CEO of the Canadian event, said: "It's where a lot of the competitors were engaged in combat or peacekeeping missions.

"We're not just putting on a traditional sports competition, it's meaningful therapy.

"It starts when they get selection by their countries to compete.

"I've heard on more than one occasion 'these games have saved my life'.

"It seemed more needed to be done...there's no ticker tape parade for those who've come back from wars in Iraq and Afghanistan."

Speaking about Harry, who previously held the games in London and Miami, he said: "He'll be there a few days earlier, he'll want to see the venue and preparations and will attend from the opening to closing ceremonies."


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