FOLLOWING the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, the media made a pledge to try to allow her sons space in which to grow into men.

Apart from a few hiccups - one of them perpetrated by Prince Edward's own film company - that promise has largely been met.

Princes William and Harry will always lead extraordinary lives, but some sense of balance has been allowed because the media is well aware that, by going over the top, there is a real danger of a public backlash out of respect for the princes' mother.

A newspaper which is seen to be too intrusive, sensationalist, or unfair risks losing readers - it is as simple as that.

That said, it is refreshing that Prince William has acknowledged the considerate role played by the media in enabling him to enjoy the enriching experience of university.

He has been able to both work and play in a dignified way. He has forged genuine friendships and warmed to the Scottish people who have so clearly respected his need for normality.

"People here just treat me like everyone else - it's really nice," he said in his interview with the Press Association.

That is a tribute to people living in the local community, but it is also a tribute to the prince himself.

For he has grown into an admirable young man who, despite his enormous privileges, has somehow managed to keep his feet on the ground.

For all that has happened to him in his young life, he comes across as well-balanced, sensitive, and caring - just what the royal family needs to help complete its process of modernisation.

It is to be hoped that the constructive relationship between the future king and the media continues for the rest of his university days and beyond.

Of course, there will be testing days ahead, but Prince William gives the distinct impression that he will rise to the challenges.

Wouldn't his mother be so very proud?