Pensioner Daphne Kingdon, from Spinney Hill, thought she would not be allowed into the town centre art gallery until the Prince opened the door for her and asked her to come in.

She said: "He shook my hand outside and asked me if I was coming in. I didn't think I'd be able to get in, but he took me with him. It was quite exciting.

"I met Diana once and shook her hand too, so it was really nice to meet the Prince."

The Prince visited the town centre art gallery to meet youngsters who have set up their own businesses after taking part in schemes organised by the Prince's Trust.

But before he could meet the business leaders, the Prince was interrupted by six-year-old Reami Fleming.

Mereway pupils thrilled to meet Prince - click here for story and super slideshow

Charles brushes up on French at Upton Meadows - here for story and super slideshow

The Parklands Primary School pupil introduced himself to the Prince and shook his hand.

He said: "The Prince said hello to me and shook my hand. I knew it was Prince Charles and he seemed very nice."

Others who met the Prince included dog groomer Su Eld-Weaver who set up her own business, It's a Dog's Life, after working with the Prince's Trust.

Outside the art gallery, the Prince took the time to chat with people who had gathered to meet him.

Among the crowd of about 30, was builder Gary Smith who raised a Royal smile by shouting 'ta-ra then Charles' as the Prince drive off.

• Don't miss full coverage of Prince Charle's visit in the Chronicle & Echo on Friday