A message from The King following devastating wildfires across the UK and Europe

My wife and I have been appalled by the devastating impact of wildfires this summer and the terrible destruction they have caused to homes, livelihoods and landscapes, not only in this beautiful part of the Cairngorms, but across the United Kingdom and - as we have seen - other regions of Europe.
 
I can only express my admiration and appreciation to all those who have worked so tirelessly and courageously, in the U.K. and beyond, to bring these fires under control and to those supporting communities facing the long road to restoration and renewal that still lies ahead. 
 
The shock of witnessing these fires around the world in recent months reminds us forcibly of the mounting pressures that prolonged heat and drought are placing upon our precious Earth, and of the increasingly urgent need not only to strengthen our collective resilience, including through preparedness and risk reduction, but also to tackle the root causes of climate change which, if not addressed, risk creating conditions which will make such tragic and costly events ever more frequent.
 
As the work of recovery still goes on for many, the compassion and fortitude of the communities affected shine through.  It is my most heartfelt hope that they continue to find in one another the strength to rebuild.

Charles R