The Prince and Princess of Wales have spoken of their shock and sadness after six people were killed in a knife attack at a shopping mall in Sydney, Australia.

The Prince and Princess issued a message of sympathy just hours after the attack.

Eight people are still being treated in hospital following the stabbings. One of them is a nine month old baby whose mother was killed in the attack.

In a statement on social media, William and Catherine said ”We are shocked and saddened by the terrible events in Sydney earlier today. Our thoughts are with all those affected, including the loved ones of those lost and the heroic emergency responders who risked their own lives to save others. W & C.”

The knife attack took place at the Bondi Junction Westfield shopping centre in Sydney and was carried out by one person who was shot dead at the scene by police.

It’s believed all the stabbings were random. Australian police say they know the identity of the killer and do not believe he had links to any terrorist organisation.