The Duchess of Sussex says 2020 has been an "overwhelming process of grief, growth and gratitude"

Writing in the foreword for the charity's annual review, she shared:

"Over the last year, each of us have felt the profound effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Be it the loss of a loved one, the health challenges far too many faced, or the disproportionate life changes everyone has experienced, it has been an overwhelming process of grief, growth and also of gratitude ...

"When I reflect on 2020, I always come back to the importance of community and connection. We may have been forced apart, but we found new ways to be close and to support each other through this shared crisis. For many of us, this was made all the easier with our pets by our side."

And the former 'Suits' actress went on to thank those who had supported the charity through a tough time, praising the work they did to support the animals through the pandemic.

She added: "I want to thank every animal lover across London, the U.K.

and the world who has supported Mayhew during the past year. Your help has meant that, despite the hardship, Mayhew has been able to continue providing vital support to cats and dogs, and the communities around them. I have been proud to witness Mayhew adapting to the moment – through virtual rehoming, TheraPaws visits over Zoom and delivering care packages to animals and pet owners in need.

"The organisation has rescued and rehabilitated cats and dogs in critical situations and, of course, delivered vital animal health services overseas in countries also gripped by the pandemic."