PRINCE Charles arrived at Garth to a chorus of cheers from the pupils of Irfon Valley Primary School as part of his annual tour of Wales.

The Prince of Wales was greeted by dignitaries and Garth Village Hall committee members before embarking on a tour around the newly refurbished hall and meeting with local community groups who use the hall on a regular basis.

Charles then took a tour of the gardens meeting local crafts people and willow whittlers Amy Fairhurst and Margaret Mead said: "HRH obviously knew about the different types of willow and the different things you can do with it. He asked was it difficult to do."

A keen beekeeper himself, Charles then spoke with Fred Eckton, who was recently awarded the BEM for services to Welsh bee keeping.

Fred, who has around 20 hives said: "He asked where I keep my bees and when I gave him a jar of honey he asked was it from oil seed rape as he doesn’t like honey from that. I assured him it wasn’t."

Prince Charles then spoke with members of Troedrhiwdalar YFC before enjoying a Welsh song and he told the singers they had "marvellous harmonising" before telling them to "keep the YFC going."

After enjoying a choral performance from the choir and a short sketch of school life 100 years ago from the pupils of Irfon Valley Primary School, Janet Williams, the chairman of the Village Hall committee thanked the Prince for coming explained that in honour of his visit, the children of the school had designed flags.

"Amy Evans has won the best flag competition and her flag has been made up and is here today."

HRH then unveiled a plaque and made an impromptu speech thanking the people of Garth for such a "very special treat."

The Prince of Wales said: "I am sorry I wasn’t able to make it last year for your 100th birthday but I am so glad I had the brief opportunity to join you all today to celebrate your 101st. It is such a remarkable gathering and you have all put in so much effort. It’s been the most enjoyable visit."