IN DIANA'S FOOTSTEPS

William recreates Rio snap Then awards eco winners

- BY RUSSELL MYERS

AS he stands beneath Rio de Janeiro's statue of Christ the Redeemer and calls for action to make the world a better place for future generations, Prince William is every inch his mother's son.

The Prince of Wales visited the landmark in the Brazilian city yesterday with the 15 finalists of his Earthshot Prize.

But it also proved an emotional personal pilgrimage as he paused beneath the 98ft statue in almost the same spot where Diana stood for a photo in 1991 during her tour of the country.

Then Prince William was an eight-year-old boy. Yesterday, as a 43-year-old global statesman, he appeared moved as he took in the view of Guanabara Bay, with the Sugarloaf mountain behind.

The third day of the prince's own trip to Brazil - where he has been welcomed by crowds - was one for honouring the finalists and winners of his prize.