“Special and genuine”: Prince William uses sign language to honour TV translator
Prince William is hard at work at Buckingham Palace as he handed out Most Excellence Order of the British Empire (MBEs).
He impressed royal fans as he congratulated one guest in sign language.
The Duke of Cambridge, 37, can be seen smiling at TV interpreter Alex Duguid as he communicated “congratulations Alex”.
Duguid quickly thanked the Prince.
Duguid received his MBE for his services to deaf people and to British Sign Language education, as he has spent three decades helping broadcasters communicate with deaf audiences. Duguid also teaches British Sign Language courses through the organisation Signature, which helps hundreds of people communicate with deaf people.
The Kensington Palace Instagram paid tribute to Duguid and his services, saying:
“He is an example of how profoundly deaf people can have an impact on their community, their peers and their country.
“He is passionate about BSL and the need to promote and protect it.”
Many were quick to praise Prince William for using sign language to honour Duguid.
“Prince William is such a great person. He takes time to make people feel special and appreciated. His smile is genuine also,” one person tweeted.
“It is so lovely that William signed to Mr Duguid, who must have been very touched by the gesture. I love Williams smile when he finished!” another agreed.
Other recipients that were honoured by Prince William include Father Brian D’Arcy, Sir Andrew Strauss, Margaret and William Foster and musician M.I.A.