Prince Harry breaks cover after Vanity Fair takedown and 'disaster tourist' claims
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Prince Harry has been spotted visiting firefighters and their therapy dogs in the wake of the devastating wildfires that have ripped through California. The Duke of Sussex was seen posing for pictures with several members of the Salinas Fire Department as well as petting their therapy support dogs. Snaps of the visit were shared on social media although it is unclear when Harry visited the group.
However, they are the first new pictures of the prince to emerge since he and wife Meghan Markle were the subject of a damning article in Vanity Fair magazine about their post-royal life. The pictures were also shared the day that Harry's trial against the publisher of The Sun was set to open at the High Court. Tuesday was due to mark the start of the trial, but delays mean that the case remains unopened after legal teams suggested that Harry was 'very close' to settling his claims over allegations of unlawful information gathering.
In the snaps shared by the fire department, Harry, dressed casually in black trousers and a black zip up jacket, can be seen standing alongside several firefighters and the support dogs. In other photos he can be seen tenderly stroking some of the pets.
The fire department wrote on Instagram: "Cruz and Taffy, Facility Dogs with the Salinas Fire Dept, along with their friends, have been actively assisting in the efforts to combat the LA fires, providing much-needed support to firefighters and affected communities.
"In an inspiring turn of events, they also had the opportunity to meet Prince Harry, who is known for his philanthropic work and advocacy on various social issues, including disaster relief. This encounter not only boosted their morale but also emphasised the importance of community and collaboration in the face of such devastating challenges.".
