Charles, Camilla visit injured

2005-07-08 16:33

London - Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall on Friday visited hospitals treating scores of the wounded from London's bombings, leading a mobilisation by the royal family in the wake of the worst carnage Britain has seen since World War II.

The heir to the British throne and his wife offered their support to the victims being treated at St Mary Hospital, a few hundred metres from one of the blast scenes.

"It's been one of the things that many of us have dreaded for a long time and now they (the attackers) have finally got through," the Prince of Wales said.

"What I can never get over is the resilience of the British people who have set us all a fantastic example of how to recover," he said, also praising London transport staff for the way they conducted themselves during the crisis.

Extraordinary

"I remember coming here after the Paddington rail crash. (Staff) really are extraordinary. Everyone pulls together and it brings out the best of them."

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall added: "It makes me very proud to be British."

In New Zealand, Prince William expressed shock on Friday at news of the bombings and extended his "heartfelt sympathies" to the victims' families.

The second-in-line to the British throne, who is nearing the end of an 11-day visit centred on following the British and Irish Lions rugby tour, cancelled plans to go on a whale-watching trip after hearing the news.

"I was shocked and very saddened to learn of the terrible events that have occurred in London," the 23-year-old prince said in a statement.

Heartfelt

"At this time I am sure that I am joined by New Zealanders and Lions supporters alike in extending to the families and loved ones of those directly involved my heartfelt sympathies.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you."

The eldest son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana is due to sign a book of condolences at the British consulate in Auckland on Saturday, and fly out of New Zealand the following day.

- AFP