Harry launches polo competition to raise cash for African children

Published on Sunday 31 January 2010 21:32

PRINCE Harry made an impassioned plea yesterday for support for his charity Sentebale as he launched a polo competition that will fund its efforts to help impoverished African children.

The prince also expressed his sympathy for the victims of the Haitian earthquake and spoke of how when "natural disaster strikes" eventually a sense of hope would follow.

The prince was in Barbados to play in the inaugural Sentebale Polo Cup, an event that will be staged around the world to raise funds for his charity's work in the South African country of Lesotho.

In the beautiful setting of the Apes Hill Club, the wealthy and influential of the Caribbean island gathered to watch the royal take to the field leading his side against a South African team. His efforts were praised by veteran entertainers Cilla Black and Russ Abbot who were both holidaying in the country and amongst the guests.

The prince, 25, told guests: "It seems to be one of life's cruellest ironies that when natural disaster strikes – whether it be earthquake in Haiti, or years of drought and ravaging by HIV/Aids in Lesotho – it is always the most vulnerable, the defenceless, normally the children, who are left exposed and needing more help.

"We seem so powerless to prevent these things from happening, but out of such tragedy, comes the purest of human reactions: love, charity, and, in time, a sense of renewed hope. This is really what Sentebale is about."

Abbot described the prince, who is training to become an army helicopter pilot, as a "fine soldier" who was carrying out commendable charity work along with his brother Prince William.

He said: "I think the two princes are magnificent in what they do in their charities."

Black, 67, had spent Saturday evening with Prince Harry and others at a fundraising dinner in aid of the Haitian victims. The veteran entertainer joked about her time on Barbados. She said: "I came here for New Year and it's been party, party ever since."