As Wales Week continues, The Prince of Wales had a full day of engagements yesterday – many of which reflected his passion for the environment and sustainability.
Prince Charles began with a visit to Llandovery college, where he addressed the Harmony in Food and Farming Conference. The heir to the throne was received by Sara Edwards, The Queen’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed.
During a speech, Charles once again highlighted his concern for the environment, claiming he does not understand why people do not prioritise ‘terrifying environmental issues’. The Prince spoke for twenty minutes, suggesting that environmental problems could be fought in various ways; for instance, using music, crafts and education.
The Prince of Wales then returned to Rachel’s Organic Dairy in Aberystwyth to open their new extension, after visiting in 1998.
Charles donned a boiler suit and spoke with Rachel Rowlands, who founded the company in 1982, and some of the 100 employees. He even spoke to Nigel Truman, who was working with Rachel’s when HRH first visited 20 years ago, and the two men discussed the changes which have taken place in that time.
During the visit, The Queen’s eldest son emphasised the importance of the Welsh dairy industry, as well as sampling some yoghurt. Before leaving, Prince Charles unveiled a plaque to officially open the extension, and was presented with a hamper of products.
We were honoured to welcome HRH The Prince of Wales to our Aberystwyth dairy today. It was a pleasure to have you here @ClarenceHouse pic.twitter.com/eoHARcnP0P
— Rachel’s (@RachelsOrganic) July 10, 2017
Afterwards was a visit to Strata Florida Abbey and a reception for the supporters of the Strata Florida Trust. The site in Dyfed used to be a Cistercian monastery, and now houses the charitable organisation.
FIRST DAY OF WALES WEEK – UNVEILING OF STAINED GLASS WINDOW
Established in 2006, the Strata Florida Trust focuses on protecting the heritage and landscaping of Ceredigion and the Welsh nation.
Once again, The Prince of Wales spent some time chatting with locals, including school children who have been studying the history of the Abbey. Prince Charles was also able to examine the Nanteos Cup, believed by many to be the Holy Grail – although even the heir to the throne had to wear white gloves to avoid marking the artefact!
The final visit of the day took place in the Lampeter, where Charles opened the Volac International biomass factory. The company operates in line with Charles’ green beliefs, as it produces energy by burning sustainable wood fuel.
HE wore a white hard hat and fluorescent yellow vest as he toured the factory and spoke with some of the company’s employees.
Upon his return to his Welsh residence, Prince Charles also held a private musical evening in his role as patron of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, whose students performed during the concert.
The Prince of Wales is delighted to open Volac International’s new biomass plant, using sustainable wood fuel to produce energy. #HRHinWales pic.twitter.com/eoPmmJbj7T
— Clarence House (@ClarenceHouse) July 10, 2017
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