THE world's oldest newspaper received the royal seal of approval when Prince Charles met its editor and learned about its history.

Berrow's Worcester Journal editor John Wilson, Worcester News editor Kevin Ward, Newsquest publisher Ian Richardson, and Newsquest regional finance director Bob Smith were all presented to the Prince when he visited the Commandery yesterday.

The Prince was told about the history of the Berrow's Worcester Journal, which has been published in the city since 1690, and was shown original archive copies from the 18th century.

Mr Wilson said: "Receiving the royal seal of approval was a proud day for the paper.

"It has been part of the Faithful City for more than 300 years and it was an honour for its role in the community to be recognised.

"Prince Charles seemed genuinely interested in the newspaper, its history and the continuing part it plays in Worcester life."

Prince Charles was shown a story from the 1700s about a farmer who was described as a "man of great bulk and a guzzler," who had been out with his friends and drunk and eaten so much he died.

Worcester News editor Kevin Ward said he wanted to illustrate how news and issues today were similar to the issues written about 300 years ago.

Prince Charles was also presented with a copy of the earliest surviving front page, from 1714, and details about Worcester charity Noah's Ark - a bereavement charity for children and their families. Your Worcester News and Berrow's Worcester Journal are running an appeal to help find the charity a new home.

Before the Prince left the room he spoke to children from Powick School who were pretending to be news reporters writing stories.

Charles sat down with them, and wrote a note with a quill pen and ink which said: "I have had a very nice visit to the Commandery". He signed it Charles'.

Thomas Hall, aged seven, said the Prince had asked him if he liked reading and if he was given homework.

"He was smart and friendly and I told him to be careful about getting his sleeves in the ink," he said.

  • View our picture gallery from the visit here.