"You're much better-looking in real life, Charles" (From Worcester News)

"You're much better-looking in real life, Charles"

10:10am Wednesday 11th June 2008 in

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CROWDS of well-wishers turned out to give a warm Worcester welcome to Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall during their city visit.

More than 150 people gathered outside the Commandery, Sidbury, when the royal motorcade rolled up at 12.15pm.

The pair immediately headed for the crowds, many of whom had been patiently waiting since the morning, to swap good wishes and shake hands.

An elderly lady raised a broad smile from Charles when she loudly informed him - and the crowd: "You're better looking in real life than you are on television."

Sue Hearl, 69, was at the barrier with her husband David, 73, of Framlingham Close, Worcester, to see the Prince for the second time in her life, having travelled to London in 1981 for his marriage to Princess Diana.

She said: "He shook hands with David and said it was nice to see us."

The Duchess complimented Cicely Wilson, 74, of Tennyson Drive, Malvern, on her white-brimmed sun hat.

Mrs Wilson had come to see the royal couple with neighbour Ken Tanday, 85, who first met the Prince aboard HMS Minerva in the 1970s.

He said: "I came forward and told him that I had met him on Minerva. It was wonderful, I think he remembered me."

Mary and Edward Amon, of London Road, Worcester, were thrilled when Charles and Camilla came over to shake hands. Mrs Amon, 59, said the couple had "very soft hands" and looked good together.

Her husband, 60, said: "He didn't just walk in, he came over to meet us. I was surprised at how approachable he was."

The royal couple also shared a quick word before and after their trip round the Commandery with a woman customer at Creations hairdressers, who spoke to Charles and Camilla with her rollers still in.

• View our picture gallery from the visit here.