Prince Edward has offered his support to Team GB as the Milan-Cortina Paralympic Winter Games begin.The Duke of Edinburgh has been Patron of the British Paralympic Association for more than 20 years. In his message, he said: “I just wanted to wish you all the best for the forthcoming games in Italy, and I hope that just as generally, but also in your individual competitions.“The Olympic team surprised so many of us, and I know that you’re going to go out there and surprise many as well, and you’re just going to be able to show them exactly what you can do. Prince Edward has sent a positive message to Team GB as the Paralympics begin in Italy | PA“So, good luck, have fun, and however you’re involved in the team, I hope you really enjoy the experience.”The duke had a presence in Italy during the Olympic Games as he celebrated with Team GB’s first gold medal of the games, which was won by Charlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale.The Duke of Sussex has also sent a message ahead of the games to an athlete who participated in his Invictus Games. Mr Meenagh, played rugby competitively and represented West of Scotland and Scotland under-18s.He was injured at the age of 21 when he stepped on an improvised explosive device during his service in Afghanistan.Mr Meenagh, who now competes in para Nordic skiing, received a video message from the duke.Prince Edward celebrated with Charlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale as they won the first gold medal of the Olympic Games last month | PA Harry said: “Alright big lad. Alright Scotty mate, H here. Just want to say a huge congratulations.”You’re carrying our flag. Wow, wow that is huge. Huge, huge respect, mate.”Congrats. I hope you’re really happy. I hope you can feel proud of where you’ve got to and all you need to do now is smash the PBs. Get a medal if you want, and most importantly, have fun.”The Duke of Sussex reflected on the Invictus Games Mr Meenagh had competed in.The duke continued: “Just thinking back to 2014, that first Invictus Games, and I think one or two others since then, in 2017, a standout moment for me was, your running blade broke, and you carried on. You didn’t let it stop you.”You finished the race, you crossed the finish line. I think you even finished second place.”That was such a true example of your spirit and your determination. Throughout your recovery process, you have never faltered.The Duke met Mr Meenagh back in 2016 | PA”You have pushed through on every single element, and look at where you are now.”Harry concluded his message, heaping praise on the Paralympian, describing him as a “fantastic example to everybody”.He told Mr Meenagh: “Go out there. Show people what you’re made of and know that every single time you go out there and do what you do, you’re inspiring so many other people.”So thank you for being you. Cheers, mate.”