Donald Trump has honoured the late Charlie Kirk with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The US president expressed his "horror and grief" at the shooting of the Conservative activist and sent his prayers to his wife and two children.

Donald Trump said: "Before we begin, let me express the horror and grief felt by so many Americans at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk.

"Charlie was a giant of his generation a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions and millions of people. Our prayers are with his wonderful wife, and his beautiful children. They are truly fantastic people.

"We miss him greatly. Yet I have no doubt that Charlie’s voice and the courage he instilled in countless people, especially young people, will live on.

"I am pleased to announce that I will soon be awarding Charlie Kirk, posthumously, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

"The date of the ceremony will be announced soon and I can guarantee you one thing, there will be a very big crowd."

It is the second Presidential Medal of Freedom Mr Trump has announced in his second term as US President.

The first of his second term was for former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, however, it has yet to be awarded to him.

Charlie Kirk was shot at a university event in Utah on Wednesday evening.

The 31-year-old was rushed to hosptial but died shortly afterwards.

Mr Kirk rose to prominence in American conservative politics as the founder of Turning Point USA, which grew into the country’s largest conservative youth organisation.

The group played a key role in rallying young voter support for Donald Trump during the November election.

Through Turning Point USA, Kirk organised student trips to Israel and promoted educational initiatives supporting the country on American campuses.

The organisation provided resources and training to counter boycott campaigns whilst promoting favourable narratives about Israel to young Americans.