The Queen and the Duke of Cambridge have made an unannounced visit to the Westway Sports Centre to meet victims of the horrific Grenfell Tower fire.
The sports centre has b
een converted into a temporary shelter for those who lost everything in just a few hours, during the 14th June tower block fire. The current death toll stands at 30, although many are still missing or hospitalised.
During the royal visit, The Queen and her grandson met with members of the police, the NHS and fire services. Her Majesty and Prince Phillip praised the”bravery” of the emergency services in a statement released yesterday.
The Royals also met with residents of the block, as well as volunteers and community representatives.
The Queen and Prince William meet firefighters during a visit to the Westway Sports Centre, London, which is providing temporary shelter for those who have been made homeless by the fire at Grenfell Tower. Picture by i-Images / Pool)
Residents of the Kensington borough, and the wider London area, have rallied around the victims with a vast number of donations of clothes, toys and food, showing a strength of human spirit.
WILLIAM, KATE AND HARRY DONATE TO GRENFELL TOWER VICTIMS FUND
While surveying the centre and its facilities, Queen Elizabeth spoke with Angela McConville, CEO of the Westway Trust. Before departing, Her Majesty also signed a book of condolences for the victims.
Prime Minister Theresa May paid a visit to the tower, but spoke only with emergency services and not residents affected by the inferno; London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan bore the brunt of many’s anger, and Opposition Leader Jeremy Corbyn was seem comforting victims.
As the Royals were about to get in the car, one man – who seemingly didn’t get the chance to meet The Queen and Duke – shouted for them to wait. William, who was being ushered into the car by staff, promised he would return for another visit.
In addition to today’s visit, it was confirmed yesterday that The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry contributed to a fund for the victims. The young royals hope that this gesture will encourage others to follow suit.
This visit is the latest in a string of unplanned engagements relating to London’s recent tragedies, such as Prince Harry’s visit to Borough Market yesterday, and The Duchess of Cambridge, who visited victims of the London Bridge attack in King’s College Hospital earlier in the week.
