Madonna devasted at stage deaths

MADONNA has spoken about her devastation after two workers were killed while erecting a stage for her tour.

British man Charles Prow, 32, from Headingley near Leeds, and an unnamed 53-year-old French man, were killed after the partially-built roof of the stage, which was being erected in Marseilles, France, caved in bringing down a crane.

Eight other people were seriously hurt, including an American man who is said to be in a critical condition. More than 30 others suffered minor injuries and shock.

City officials said the roof had been approximately two-thirds complete when the accident happened, and police said a faulty power winch may have played a role in its cause.

One worker said: "Technicians knew what they were doing, but there was a terrible accident. Sadly, these things can happen."

French officials have opened an investigation for manslaughter, and experts are already examining the scene and interviewing witnesses.

The crew had been setting up the stage at the Velodrome stadium in the French city for Madonna's Sticky and Sweet tour.

The concert, which was scheduled for this Sunday at the 60,000-seater stadium, has now been cancelled.

Madonna, who was in Udine, Italy when she heard the news, said she was "devastated" by the accident.

In a statement she said: "I am devastated to have just received this tragic news.

"My prayers go out to those who were injured and their families along with my deepest sympathy to all those affected by this heartbreaking news."

Later in the evening, she stopped her performance and tearfully told the audience: "I ask you for a moment to stop and think of the people who have lost their lives, we need to appreciate life, the people we love and our families."