King Charles 'shocked and saddened' by Liverpool car-ramming

King Charles III said Tuesday that he was "deeply shocked and saddened" after dozens were injured when a car was driven into crowds celebrating Liverpool's Premier League win.

"It is truly devastating to see that what should have been a joyous celebration for so many could end in such distressing circumstances," the king, who is currently on a visit to Canada with his wife Queen Camilla, said in a statement.

Hundreds of thousands of football fans had gathered in the northwest England city on Monday night to celebrate the long-awaited Reds victory.

But celebration turned into panic and horror as at least 47 people were left injured, four seriously, when a car sped down a road packed with revellers.

A 53-year-old white British man, believed to be the driver of the car, was arrested, but police said they were not treating the incident as terrorism.

"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," the British monarch said, thanking the emergency services.

Charles's elder son and heir Prince William and his wife Princess Catherine also said they were "deeply saddened by the scenes in Liverpool", which left four children injured, including one in a serious condition.

"Our thoughts are with those who were injured", said the prince, who is patron of the Football Association and and avid fan of the sport.

aks/phz