The Queen offers heartfelt message of support to Mexico earthquake victims

The Queen has sent a message to the President of Mexico offering condolences after the devastating earthquake that claimed hundreds of lives.

In a message to president Enrique Pena Nieto, the monarch said she was “deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and the devastation”.

The disaster is the deadliest earthquake to hit Mexico for decades and has left more than 200 people dead, according to reports.

In a statement from Buckingham Palace Her Majesty said: "I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and the devastation following the terrible earthquake yesterday in Mexico.

"That it happened so soon after the powerful earthquake that hit southern Mexico less than two weeks ago is all the more concerning.

"Prince Philip and I send our sincere condolences to the victims of this disaster, to those who have lost loved ones, and to those who have seen their homes and property destroyed. My thoughts and prayers are with those affected."

Mexico's civil defence agency this morning put the death toll at 248, with more than half of the dead in Mexico City. There are still conflicting reports surrounding the death toll.

Horrifying footage has emerged of buildings across the country collapsing, while two million people have been left without electricity.

Mexico City’s mayor Miguel Angel Mancera told local media that rescue crews were sifting through the rubble of collapsed and badly damaged in 44 locations across the capital.

The latest tremor comes just weeks after an 8.1 magnitude quake shook the region killing 90 people.

A host of world leaders have offered support to Mexico.

US President Donald Trump tweeted: "God bless the people of Mexico City. We are with you and will be there for you."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also tweeted his support following the "devastating news".

Prime Minister Theresa May has also expressed her support saying her "thoughts and sympathies" were with all those affected by the earthquake.

The 7.1 magnitude quake caused extensive damage across the centre of the country and was the second tremor to hit in two weeks.

Rescuers are continuing to search for survivors with footage from the capital Mexico City showing volunteers joining the effort.

The world's attention has been drawn to the heartbreaking incident of a primary school that collapsed killing more than 20 children and a number of adults.