William thanks emergency services for working ‘tirelessly’ to tackle wildfires

The Prince of Wales has thanked emergency services for “working tirelessly” to battle wildfires across the country.

William said his thoughts are with all those affected, including those who have lost their homes in blazes.

His message comes after wildfires caused devastation across large parts of the UK, including in Stourbridge, in the West Midlands, where 19 homes were destroyed.

In a personal statement, the prince said: “To the firefighters, emergency responders and volunteers battling wildfires across the UK, thank you.

Firefighters spraying water onto the burnt out remains of a house following a huge blaze in Stourbridge (Jacob King/PA)

PA Wire

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected, particularly those who have lost their homes, and with those working tirelessly to protect communities, homes and the countryside.”

The message was signed with a W to indicate it had come from the prince himself.

Around 100 military personnel have been deployed to a large area across South Wales to help battle wildfires.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the helpers will offer “critically needed” support.

On Friday the Government also announced a ban on disposable barbecues, while millions of people in England and Wales received an alert on their mobile devices warning them of “a very high risk of wildfires nationally”.