Orlando shooting: Kate and William sign book of condolence for victims

Jason Collie14 June 2016

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have sent their "thoughts and prayers" to the victims of the gay nightclub massacre in Orlando.

Lone gunman Omar Mateen, 29, left 49 people dead and dozens of others wounded in the massacre at Pulse in the Florida city on Sunday.

William and Kate visited the American Embassy in central London on Tuesday to sign a book of condolence.

Dressed in black, the royal couple were greeted by the US Ambassador Matthew Barzun before writing individual messages.

Signing: The Duchess signed her name as Catherine
Philip Toscano/PA Wire

The Duke paused for a moment to read the ambassador's dedication as his wife stood solemnly by his side.

He wrote: "With our deepest condolences and with our thoughts and prayers to all those affected."

The Duchess signed "Catherine" beside her husband's name.

Condolences: William adds his name to the tributes, watched by the Duchess of Cambridge
Philip Toscano/PA Wire

The couple then spoke to embassy staff who have worked on LGBT issues.

Dozens of embassy workers, all wearing custom-made badges with a combination of the American, British and Pride flags, filled the lobby for the royal visit.

An image of their messages will be added to an online condolence book which the public are able to contribute to.

Prince Harry enjoyed the hospitality of the southern state when he visited Orlando last month for the Invictus games.

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