Prince William and Kate Middleton issue statement on tragic Liverpool parade crash

The Prince and have said they've been left 'deeply saddened' after dozens were injured when a car ploughed into fans who had been celebrating at . Nearly 50 people - including four children - were injured when a vehicle drove through a . A total of 20 people were treated for injuries at the scene in Liverpool city centre, with a further 27 taken to hospital.

, who is patron of the Association, and wife Kate, took to social media to send a personal message today, which said: "We are deeply saddened by the scenes in Liverpool yesterday. What should have been a joyful celebration ended with tragedy. Our thoughts are with those who were injured and to the first responders and emergency services on the ground. W & C"

Meanwhile, , who is currently on a trip to Canada also shared a message saying he too was shocked and saddened to hear of the terrible events in Liverpool. He added: "It is truly devastating to see that what should have been a joyous celebration for many could end in such distressing circumstances.

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"At this heartbreaking time for the people of Liverpool, I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need.

"Our prayers and deepest sympathy are with all those who have been affected, and my special gratitude goes out to the first responders, emergency services personnel and other individuals who rushed to the aid of the injured."

Liverpool's mayor Steve Rotheram said four people are still "very, very ill in hospital" after the vehicle struck dozens of pedestrians on Water Street in the city centre. A 53-year-old man was arrested after the 'horror' incident and four children were among those who were injured – including one child who was seriously hurt.

Meanwhile, medical staff who treated those injured after the horror scenes told Princess Anne they were "very, very fortunate" there were not more major injuries. Anne visited the Royal Liverpool University Hospital where she met nurses, consultants and paramedics, as well as representatives from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and the football club.

Divisional medical director for surgery at Aintree University Hospital Marc Lucky told the princess they had put out an alert for staff to come in. He said: "It’s a very good example of the resilience and people volunteering. We had too many people, which is a very interesting complaint to have." He told the royal the injuries were not "major traumas". He said: "We were very, very fortunate yesterday, I must say."

Consultant Jay Rathore said: "Most of the injuries were limb injuries. No life-threatening, we were able to manage them." Specialist paramedic Susan McCormick told Anne she was one of the first responders on scene as she and a colleague were treating a man for something unrelated when the incident happened.

Advanced paramedic Gary Fitzpatrick told Anne: "We actually had a plan before the event so we were quite prepared for the situation." Nurses told the princess that planning they had done for major incidents kicked in on the day and processes worked. Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson thanked Anne for her visit. He said: "We really appreciate you still coming, because it will mean a lot to the people of the city."

The princess, who is is also Patron of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, was already due to be in Liverpool today to visit Cunard ship the Queen Anne, which arrived on Monday as part of the shipping line’s 185th anniversary celebrations.

A spokesperson said: "The Princess would like to share her heartfelt condolences and support for the families and communities affected. Her Royal Highness also wishes to acknowledge the courage of the emergency services, some of whom she met today, and all those providing care and comfort during this difficult time."