Diana auction aids quake victims

Princess Diana was killed in a car crash in 1997

A signed print of Diana, Princess of Wales by Mario Testino is to be auctioned to help those affected by the recent earthquake in Peru.

The eight magnitude quake on 15 August killed more than 500 people in the Ica region and left thousands homeless.

Mr Testino, a Peruvian, said the cause was very important to him. The photo first appeared in Vanity Fair in 1997.

Proceeds from the sale, which will take place in London on 20 November, will go to a Save the Children appeal.

"I have decided to auction an image of Diana to help the people in Peru because, for me, Diana went out of her way to help people," Mr Testino said.

'Extremely sad'

The photograph appeared on invitations to the recent charity concert at Wembley Stadium organised by Prince Harry and Prince William to mark the life of the princess.

Mr Testino said: "I feel very attached to this cause and this is the reason I've decided to help as much as can.

"The photo that I took of Diana in '97 captured a moment in time that can never be repeated.

"I hope the value of this will be recognised when it is auctioned in aid of Save the Children, whose work is helping children in Peru recover from this disaster.

"The thought of these people living with their sorrow and pain in these freezing conditions is extremely sad."

Funds raised from the auction will go towards providing food, water, blankets, large tents, and kitchen equipment.

The auction will be held on 20 November by Phillips de Pury & Company in London.