Topless Britney Spears thanks fans for support

LOS ANGELES (AFP) - A topless Britney Spears has thanked fans for their support during "the trying time" that has included the end of her marriage, a bizarre public meltdown and a spell in rehab. In a message posted on her website, a photo of Spears wearing nothing but a pair of elbow-length white gloves appears alongside a message to fans who have included the troubled pop princess in their prayers.

"The reason for this letter is to let everyone know that their prayers have truly helped me," Spears writes.

"I am so blessed that you care enough about me to be concerned and will continue to live in this brighter state with all of you by myself during this trying time," she said.

"We are all lights of the world and we all need to continuously inspire others and look to the higher power," she added.

Spears split from husband Kevin Federline last year, an event that triggered an avalanche of tabloid stories about the "Oops! ... I Did It Again" star.

She was photographed partying hard in Los Angeles and Las Vegas -- often pantyless -- and bizarrely shaved her head shortly before entering a rehabilitation clinic.