Charles Earl Spencer released a statement this morning after floods damaged a 400-year-old brick wall at his home Althorp House in West Northamptonshire.

The property’s estate, which was the childhood home of Charles and his siblings, including the late Princess Diana, suffered damage as a result of a weekend of flooding in the UK caused by Storm Bert.

As well as a statement, Charles, 60, also released a photograph of the brick wall which fell down after being unable to stand the pressure of the water rising around it.

Along with the photograph, he said: “This gives an idea of the force of water that ripped through the landscape round Althorp House during the weekend floods: this 400-year-old wall stood in the way of a brand new river of run-off water, and it was unable to withstand the pressure. 100 kg ironstone blocks were thrown back up to 70 metres, as the water won….

“The team at Althorp has been amazing – working round the clock to help those whose homes have been flooded, clearing roads, and minimising the impact of this shocking time. I couldn’t be prouder of their dedication and determination.”

Since posting a picture of the flood damage on Instagram on Thursday, dozens have flocked to send their well wishes.

One person wrote: “Wow this is insane, that was powerful.”

Another said: “Goodness what a flood Althorp suffered, well done to your team all helping out the village recover.”

A third wrote: “How worrying for you. A new stage in managing the estate for future generations. How to compete against climate change.”