Diana bodyguard speaks out for the first time

TREVOR REES-JONES, the bodyguard who survived the Paris car crash which killed Diana, Princess of Wales, yesterday spoke of his sadness and sympathy for the families of those who died.

"I have at the front of my mind the fact that three people were killed in the accident last August," he said.

"On this, the first occasion I have spoken publicly, I wish to extend my sympathy to the families and friends of those killed.

"I will continue to co-operate fully with the investigation by Judge [Herve] Stephan. But I wish to make clear that I have already told Judge Stephan all that I remember concerning the accident.

"I have every confidence in the judge's investigation. At present, I do not intend to talk further on the subject until after the court proceedings are concluded, if at all."

Mr Rees-Jones appealed for privacy as the first anniversary of the crash, on 31 August, approaches.

"I ask you to appreciate that the next month will be a difficult time for the relatives of those killed in the accident. It will also be a difficult time for me and my family.

"I ask you all to respect our privacy at this time and allow us all to deal with the anniversary in our own way."

Mr Rees-Jones, who spoke to PA News and APTV, added: "Finally, I wish to make clear that I have received no payment for recording this statement and, apart from my salary, have received no payment since the date of the accident.

Mr Rees-Jones, a former paratrooper and only survivor of the crash, suffered horrific injuries.

He has endured a series of painful operations to rebuild his face in the 11 months since he was pulled from the Mercedes wreck that killed Diana, Dodi Fayed and their driver Henri Paul.

He was heavily sedated for days and so was not told of the deaths of the Princess, Mr Fayed and the driver for more than a week after the accident.

Now the 29-year-old from Oswestry, Shropshire, is trying to rebuild his life. He has given up his job with Harrods chief Mohamed Al Fayed and works as a part-time sales assistant in a sports shop.

The statement comes as preparations are being made for the anniversary of the Princess's death. The Queen has already ordered that all Union flags at royal residences fly at half-mast, and the same gesture is expected at public buildings flying the flag.

The Royal Family including Princes William and Harry, will attend prayers at Crathie Church, Balmoral.