THE Amman and Towy Valleys were graced by royalty last week as the Prince of Wales took a tour of the region.

Prince Charles stopped in at a variety of environmentally-friendly and community-based businesses to promote sustainable living and the use of locally-sourced produce.

After arriving by train at Ammanford Station, the Prince took a trip to the Abaca Organic factory in Tycroes to try out the firm’s sheep-wool mattress.

He then headed off to Llandeilo, where he paid a visit to various shops. The whistle-stop tour then saw the Prince and his entourage visit Cwmdu, where the National Trust has helped residents set up a community-based pub and village shop.

Charles was treated to two hymns in the village chapel by youngsters from the Sunday School and pupils from nearby Talley School before enjoying a swift half in Cwmdu Inn.

As well as spending time chatting to the volunteer staff who man the bar at the pub, where he impressed residents with his knowledge of sheep and cattle farming, the Prince also took the time to chat with members of the village vintage tractor group.

The Prince finished the day with a trip to Llandovery where he officially opened the town’s new police station.