Prince Andrew’s ex-wife said that she ‘just had to say something’
Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)
Sarah Ferguson has said she is ‘devastated’ in an emotional statement over the wildfires in Los Angeles. Thousands of homes have been destroyed and at least 24 people have been killed due to the fires.
About 150,000 people in Los Angeles County also remain under evacuation orders, with more than 700 residents taking refuge in nine shelters. Responding to the devastation, Sarah said she ‘just had to say something’.
Speaking directly to the camera in a post on her Instagram account, she said: “I was thinking about whether my words were going to sound very, very trite if I say anything, but I just have got to say something.” She continued: “My heart is so devastated by the fires in Southern California and Los Angeles.
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“All the people who have been evacuated from their homes, they’ve lost their homes. The animals, the humane society, I am just so devastated. I just had to say something.
“You know that I am 100 per cent there. I really want to know how we can help. All over the world is just so affected by this extraordinary devastation. My heart goes out to the emergency services, to all the people who are tirelessly working and have been working for all these days to try and contain the fire.
“To the first responders and the extraordinary people who are out there fighting, to anyone out there – we’re here, we’re going to keep fighting, we’re going to help you rebuild.” In the caption for the post, Sarah wrote: “My heart breaks as I watch the devastating wildfires that Los Angeles is currently facing.
“My thoughts are with all those affected, and my support goes out to everybody in the emergency services who are working tirelessly to help.”
It comes after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were photographed consoling victims of the wildfires, Mirror reports. Celebs including Paris Hilton and Anthony Hopkins have been among those who have lost their homes.
Harry and Meghan are believed to have donated supplies including clothing, children’s items, and other essential supplies. They were seen handing out food parcels at the Pasadena Convention Centre, which is being used as an evacuation centre.
They were also seen last Friday hugging Jose Andres, the founder of World Central Kitchen, which is distributing meals to victims. The duo were also seen taking time to speak with the Mayor of Pasadena Victor Gordo.
The mayor described the couple as ‘great people’ with ‘great personalities’. He added: “They really buoyed the spirits of the first responders. We visited the command post at the Rose Bowl and people were very happy to see them.”
The couple have also shared a statement on their website which read: “In the last few days, wildfires in southern California have raged through neighbourhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centres, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life.
“If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate, and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do. Be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbours to see if they need help evacuating.
“Some families and people have been left with nothing. Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need.”