A teenage cancer patient has met members of the British Royal family to help launch a charity Christmas appeal for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Abigail Jacobs, 13, who was diagnosed with a rare form of leukaemia in December 2020, met Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice along with their mother, the Duchess of York.

The royals met four cancer patients, including Abi from Borehamwood, who are being supported by the Teenage Cancer Trust in central London and listened to their stories.

Abi's mother Lara was also in attendance and explained to the Duchess, Sarah Ferguson, about when Abi was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Lara said: "She was showing symptoms around Christmas time, maybe just before that. We knew something was not quite right. It was quite scary and having to sort of hold it in and not show her how I felt. That was hard."

The duchess, whose daughters Eugenie and Beatrice have both given birth this year replied: "What’s interesting is that these two new mothers here… they say ‘Mum, you know, it’s just a feeling.’ Mothers know. Follow your instinct – I always say that to you, don’t I?"

The duchess, who has been an honorary patron of the Teenage Cancer Trust since its launch in 1990, told Hello! magazine: "Without it – this charity funded entirely through donations – too many young people may have to face cancer alone."

Princess Beatrice, who is also an honorary patron, said: "Christmas is one of the hardest times of the year to be in hospital undergoing treatment.

"It’s a time for family, so long stays in hospital and being isolated from loved ones can feel even more painful.

"But the work of the Teenage Cancer Trust staff is vital as they do their utmost to make the experience the most enjoyable it can be."

Sarah added: "Our work relies entirely on donations from the public, so we really can’t do it without you."

Related: Teenager raises thousands for charities after cancer diagnosis

Abi has raised thousands of pounds for charity herself after the aspiring singer released a video of her singing Jealous by singer-songwriter Labrinth.

Her cover was spotted and been supported by a host of celebrities including comedian and Habs Boys' alumni Matt Lucas, Friends star Courtney Cox, and TV presenter Emma Willis.

Abi, who has been through several rounds of chemotherapy and began a stage which is known as "maintenance" earlier this year. has raised more than £12,500 through her Go Fund Me page.

Visit https://www.teenagecancertrust.org/hello-magazine-appeal to donate to the Hello! and Teenage Cancer Trust Christmas appeal.