The Duchess of Cambridge described it as “so wonderful” to be back at the Natural History Museum as she prepares to announce its Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

Kate was filmed in the museum’s famous Hintze Hall ahead of the virtual awards ceremony on Tuesday night.

In a short video clip, the duchess, wearing a black tailored jacket and pearl earrings, said: “It is so wonderful to be back at the reopened Natural History Museum where we can all enjoy its treasures once again.

“I’m here because tomorrow night, I’m announcing the 56th Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have a quick preview and I can say it’s truly spectacular. I can’t wait for you all to see it.”

The museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the world’s longest running and most prestigious annual wildlife photography competition, with more than 49,000 entries from across the globe.

Kate is patron of the museum and will talk about how the photos serve as a reminder to care for the environment when she announces the grand title during the virtual ceremony.

“The skill and creativity of this year’s images provide a moving and fascinating insight into the beauty and vulnerability of life on our planet,” the duchess will say.

“Thank you to all those who entered for showing us the magic of the natural world, and for reminding us that caring for our environment and its precious biodiversity has never been more important.”

The ceremony will be livestreamed at 8pm on Tuesday on the museum’s YouTube channel.