St. John's (Antigua), Dec 31 (IANS/CMC): The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has sent condolences to persons in the Windward Islands affected by the recent heavy rains which caused flooding, landslides and claimed lives.

WICB president Dave Cameron offered his sympathies to the affected islands of the sub-region on behalf of all members and stakeholders of West Indies cricket. The rains and strong winds are being blamed for deaths and damage to roads, bridges and houses, especially in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where at least 15 people were confirmed dead.

“We have heard about the deaths and have seen the magnitude of the devastation which has affected our brothers and sisters in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Dominica and also in Grenada. This is the time of year when everyone is full of joy but that is not the case with some members of our Windies cricket family who have been dealt a hard blow," Cameron said.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines prime minister Ralph Gonsalves said his country suffered an estimated damage of East Caribbean $150 million as a result of the Dec 24 storm.

“I want to offer our deepest sympathies to those who lost loved ones and also reach out to those who are in need at this very difficult time. We want them to know that the WICB and its cricket family are by their side. We want to bring some cheer as we close out 2013 and prepare for the New Year," said Cameron.