THE PRINCE of Wales was moved to tears when a young man paid tribute to his college tutor for her support as he changed his life with help from the Prince’s Trust.

Aidan Sayers’ transformation from an unemployed teenager excluded from school to someone who has a home, car and a job was recognised with an award from the trust presented by Charles.

The award-winner thanked Claire McGarvey for guiding him through a trust course, telling her: “I’ve got as much love for you as I do my grandma.”

Read more: Prince's Trust award for young man who turned his life around

Charles was tearful as the 20-year-old spoke during the awards ceremony staged at St James’ Palace and he later praised the determination of the young people recognised.

During a speech, he said: “It really is marvellous to be together again in person after this delay of 18 months or so, then to share in the celebrations of all these wonderful young people.

“Their stories have moved me, made me laugh and cry.

“I’ve come to know how proud I am of all of them, and what they represent in terms of the incredible effort and determination they put in to all of this and to win their awards.”

Read more: Darlington's Aidan Sayers shortlisted for Prince's Trust award

The awards were presented virtually earlier this year and the event gave Charles the opportunity to see the winners in person.

Mr Sayers, from Darlington, described school as “not for me” and later revealed his hopes of joining the army were dashed because of an allergy, but he enrolled on a Prince’s Trust Achieve course which gave him purpose and confidence.

While on stage, Mr Sayers, who won the Educational Achiever Award, said:

“Without the Prince’s Trust I would probably be on the streets, because of what the Prince’s Trust has done, what all you lovely people have done, I’m stood here today and I can’t thank you enough.”

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