RESIDENTS across Basingstoke have shared messages of love and support for the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, after news of her cancer diagnosis was shared in a recent video.

She announced her condition on Friday, March 22, saying: “I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery."

She went on to add: “However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present.

“My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.

READ MORE: Hampshire reacts to Kate Middleton cancer diagnosis

“This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family."

This comes after Buckingham Palace revealed in early February that King Charles had been diagnosed with cancer. 

The statement at the time made no mention of the type of cancer he has but said he “remains wholly positive about his treatment”.

Following the news of the Princess of Wales's cancer diagnosis, people across Basingstoke shared messages of support.

Debbie Bennett said she is sending her love and prayers to Kate.

"It is difficult for two people in one family to go through what they are going through at the moment," she said.

"I think people should leave them and let them live. We wouldn't like people invading our privacy all the time. I know that they are public figures. But these conspiracy theories were so sad that it forced her to come out and share the news about her cancer. I know she would have done it at the end, but she should have given time. I felt she was really hounded.

"I just wish her all the love in the world. Bless her."

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Sharon Brown, another Basingstoke resident, also wished the best for Kate as she said: "I want to send my best wishes and we are thinking of the Royal family."

Florence Rolfe, who is a staff at Silchester CE Primary School, said it was shocking to hear the news of Kate's cancer diagnosis.

"I am her age and I have two kids and I know how difficult it would be for the family. I want to wish her well and a speedy recovery," she added.