THE Prince of Wales visited the site of the IRA bomb in Docklands yesterday to offer his support to the injured, the local community and emergency services workers.
Accompanied by Sir Paul Condon, the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, and Commander John Grieve, the head of the anti terrorist squad, Prince Charles paused outside the news agency where two young men were killed by the blast.
After examining the extent of the devastation, he met staff from the emergency services at Lime house police station and praised the courage of those who were injured.
Among those he met were PC Roger de Graaf, who suffered injuries to his eyes as he attempted to evacuate the area, and Sgt Anthony Gielty, who was the first officer at the scene marvellous job and thanked us for our efforts. He asked us to pass on regards to PC Paul Whitling, who has damaged ears caused by the explosion," said Sgt Gielty.
Two people still remain critically ill at the Royal London Hospital. Mr Zaoui Berrezag (55) is still in the intensive care unit suffering from serious injuries to his face and skull. The condition of Ms Barbar Osei (23) is described as comfortable". She also has serious facial wounds.
After having her photograph taken with the Prince of Wales at her bedside, Ms Osei said she felt "privileged" to meet him and angrily denied reports that she had been transferred to the hospital for publicity reasons.