Britain's Prince William and Duchess Catherine have helped to raise more than £675,000 for a children's charity.

The royal couple were guests of honour at a 100 Women in Hedge Funds fundraising gala at London's St James's Palace to support the Child Bereavement Charity - and the Duke of Cambridge praised the aid organisation's achievements.

Addressing the attendees at the event, William - who has been a patron of the body since 2009 - said: "What you are both doing together to alleviate the suffering of children who have lost family members, and bereaved families who have experienced the tragedy of losing a child, is beyond praise. The Child Bereavement Charity has now directly helped thousands of families.

"This year too, the charity has brought its compassion and experience to the aid of bereaved military families, whose children suffer so much - in a way, for all of our sakes. I thank you for doing this from the bottom of my heart."

William - whose mother, Princess Diana, died when he was 15 - admitted both he and Duchess Catherine hold the charity close to their hearts.

He added: "You have all been wonderfully supportive of this cause, which is so close to our hearts."

The Child Bereavement Charity is set to use the money raised to extend their reach to more bereaved children, families and professionals throughout the UK.