The Prince of Wales has paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces for their efforts throughout the coronavirus pandemic, praising them for working alongside NHS staff in the fight against COVID-19.

Wishing them a happy Christmas, Prince Charles – himself a former Air Force and Navy officer – thanked service personnel for the sacrifices they and their families have made.

The British Armed Forces have been instrumental in helping to establish key infrastructure and services quickly and effectively during the pandemic, from building temporary hospitals to helping roll out the vaccine.