THE son of a man killed by a friend has told how a letter from royalty is keeping him strong.

Portslade man Kane Manning’s father Mark was murdered in April 2014.

As the 20-year-old approaches the fourth anniversary of his dad’s death, he is inspired by Prince Harry.

He contacted the prince, who could become the Duke of Sussex when he weds fiancee Meghan Markle, because he is one of his heroes.

Mark was a bomb disposal expert with the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) which removes landmines in poor countries - and a group which red-headed Harry’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, supported.

Kane said: “Harry has done fundraising for the MAG before.

“I sent a letter of support to him, because he has obviously also lost a parent.

“It is an honour to have his support, and it means a lot to me at this time.

“I love the Royals and so did my dad, which makes it more special.”

Kane has also received a letter from Britain’s most notorious prisoner, Charles Bronson, supporting him over the loss of his father.

But the letter from Harry carries more meaning, he said.

“I really admire Prince Harry,” Kane added.

“He is an inspiration with the charity work he does and he has done a lot in his life.

“The letter I got from him has really helped me.”

The letter, sent from Kensington Palace, reads: “Dear Mr Manning.

“Prince Harry has asked me to thank you for your letter of June 27 in connection with the loss of your father.

“It was kind of you to write to Prince Harry as you did, and he was sorry to read that you have also suffered the loss of a parent.”

Kane also asked to meet with Prince Harry to talk more about the loss of his father.

Unfortunately for Kane, though, his request was politely turned down.

“I regret that he is unable to comply with your request,” the letter continues.

“I am sorry to send you such a disappointing reply. Nevertheless, Prince Harry has asked me to pass on his best wishes.”