Hundreds thronged Crickhowell’s high street today in 27c heat to glimpse Prince Charles as he officially opened the town’s new Corn Exchange.

The Prince of Wales greeted cheering children and hundreds who had waited patiently as the heatwave continued unbounded.

His Royal Highness arrived around 11.45am before promptly making his way to chat with waiting members of the crowd.

A local young girl, Alice, said she and mother Emma chatted to the Prince, who remarked on the fine weather.

Prince Charles joined representatives from the Corn Exchange, including Dean Christy and Tim Jones, for a tour of the new building, its independent shops and flats above.

A local man, David, who found his vantage spot hours before, said the visit ‘raised the profile’ of Crickhowell, and was testament to everything the Corn Exchange group had achieved.

After mixing and jockeying with locals, and business owners, Prince Charles unveiled a stone plaque to mark the Corn Exchange’s official opening, with some kind words.

“I am thrilled to return to Crickhowell,” said Prince Charles, as he unveiled the plaque.

?“After having visited the Corn Exchange, and its remarkable enterprises, I really cannot tell you how impressed I am. Through coming together, everyone involved in this project has helped retain the very special essence of Crickhowell. ??“And that is why I love returning to this town.” ??

Charles and Camilla will now continue their tour of Wales with a visit to Llandudno on Friday. ?