Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Pay Tribute to Dame Deborah James

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have issued a heartfelt message following the passing of BBC presenter Dame Deborah James, also known as Bow Baby.

The podcast presenter, campaigner and blogger passed away on Tuesday at the age of 40 after a five-year battle with bowel cancer.

The British broadcaster, who raised millions for cancer research, was recognised by Prince William for her work.

To pay tribute to Dame Deborah James following the heartbreaking news of her death, Prince William and Catherine penned a rare personal statement saying, “‘Deborah was an inspirational and unfaltering brave woman whose legacy will live on.'

Sharing their message with over 2.4 million Twitter followers, the Duke and Duchess wrote, “‘We are so sad to hear the heartbreaking news about Dame Deborah.

Our thoughts are with her children, her family and her loved ones.

Deborah was an inspirational and unfaltering brave woman whose legacy will live on.'

In a clear sign the message had been written by them, the Duke and Duchess signed off their tweet with their initials W&C.

Deborah's death was confirmed on Tuesday night as her loved ones shared the sad news that the mum of two had passed away at the age of 40 via a statement on social media following a five-year battle against stage 4 bowel cancer.

The sad news comes just weeks after the podcast presenter was awarded a Damehood and presented with the honour at her home by the future King of England.

Captioning snaps from the Duke's visit, Deborah wrote, “‘Prince William actually came to our family house today.

I am utterly honoured that he joined us for afternoon tea and champagne.'

Deborah's two children, Hugo and Eloise, chatted to Prince William, who reportedly offered them words of advice and guidance.

In May, William also visited the Royal Marsden Hospital in London to meet with nurses and staff who helped care for James.

The Prince became President of the hospital in 2007.

His late mother, Princess Diana, previously supported the facility and frequently made visits.

Dr. Nikos Votiadis, who treated James, thanked William at the time for going to see her.

It sent a powerful message.

“‘It is important to acknowledge and recognize people like Deborah, who do such an awful lot to help other people in very difficult circumstances.

She done a brilliant job,' William replied.

The Prince joked, as she put it, she made bowel cancer s**y.

Those are her words, not mine.”

William also reflected on how James's legacy impacted him.

“‘I love Deborah.

She's fantastic,' said William.

Her legacy is massive.

I am very honoured to be able to speak for her.

It felt like a very personal family moment that I was there for.

It was a glorious day as well.

She spoke very highly about her care.

It was a touching moment.

She is a brave and inspirational woman.”

Deborah was initially diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer back in December 2016 at 35 years old, and since then campaigned passionately to raise vital funds and awareness.

In the wake of Deborah's death being announced, the Late Stars Bowel Fund saw a spike in donations, with the total raised creeping toward the £7 million mark.

The campaigner is survived by her husband, Sebastian Bowen, and their two children, son Hugo, 14, and daughter Eloise, 12.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's heartfelt message is a testament to Dame Deborah James's bravery and dedication to raising awareness for cancer research.

Her legacy will undoubtedly live on through her inspiring work and the impact she has had on countless lives.