Prince William feels fortunate to have Kate

Britain's Prince William paid tribute to Kate Middleton at their last public engagement before they wed.

The future king and his bride-to-be - who will be known as Catherine after they marry at London's Westminster Abbey on April 29 at- made a day visit to Lancashire, Northern England, to celebrate the achievements of young people, and William admitted he was "very fortunate" to have the brunette beauty by his side.

During a speech to open Darwen Aldridge Community Academy, William - an RAF search and rescue pilot - told the audience: "I know that I am very fortunate. I have the support of my family and friends, I do a job I enjoy - and I have Catherine.

"But I have learnt through working with some truly inspiring charities - none more so than SkillForce - that these things can never be taken for granted."

William and Kate were helping launch a new award scheme named in his honour - the SkillForce Prince's Award - which will recognise young people's contributions to their communities.

The couple were later driven to Witton Country Park for a visit as part of William's role as patron of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge, where Kate was given the honour of starting a 100-metre race.