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Princes William and Harry have announced a new memorial statue will be built in honour of their mother, Princess Diana.
The statue will sit in the public gardens of Kensington Palace with an unveiling date set to coincide with the 20th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death.
The Princes revealed news of the planned memorial to their mother in a joint statement that highlighted the importance of the poignant tribute.
“It has been twenty years since our mother’s death and the time is right to recognise her positive impact in the UK and around the world with a permanent statue.
“Our mother touched so many lives. We hope the statue will help all those who visit Kensington Palace to reflect on her life and her legacy.”
The Mirror reports the Queen is aware of plans to build the memorial, and has given her approval.
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “The Queen is aware of the plans and supports the wish of the Duke and Prince Harry to memorialise the life and work of their mother.”
The new sculpture will be erected in the public grounds of Princess Diana’s former residence, Kensington Palace.
According to the Royal statement, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry have appointed a committee to help choose a sculptor and raise funds for the statue.
The six member committee includes Diana’s older sister, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, and Julia Samuel, close friend to the Princess, and now Prince George’s godmother.
The other committee members are Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, former private secretary to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, Gerry Farrell, the co-owner of London’s Sladmore gallery; financier Guy Monson; and John Barnes, chief executive of Historic Royal Palaces.
A memorial garden, which has the backing of Princes William and Harry, is already underway at Kensington Palace.
