Prince William turned down an offer of Cornish cider during his visit to Mousehole Association Football Club this afternoon, explaining he was "on his best behaviour" and that it was too early in the day for alcohol.
The 43-year-old royal was at the club near Penzance to officially open a new access road he had championed, solving years of traffic problems caused by the previous pothole-filled lane through the village.
The Prince of Wales met enthusiastic young footballers and spoke with contractors who built the road, expressing his gratitude for their work in supporting the club and local community.
For years, the small regional football club had been accessible only via a narrow, pothole-damaged lane that created significant challenges for players, visiting teams and supporters.
Prince William says it is ‘too early’ for cider as he refuses alcohol offer
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The deteriorating road conditions resulted in vehicle damage and logistical difficulties, making it hard for people to participate in club activities.
William spearheaded the formation of a consortium bringing together individuals and businesses to construct the new access road, addressing what he described as a "grey area" where securing funding proved challenging for the club.
The completed road has now transformed accessibility to the ground and facilities, removing a major barrier to community participation in football.
During his visit, William met young players who had achieved a remarkable 13-0 victory against their opponents. "If you win 13-0 you're going to go a long way," he told the group, adding that enjoying the game was the most important thing.
Prince William is known as the Duke of Cornwall while in Cornwall
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The Prince personally thanked the contractors who constructed the new road, telling them: "I really appreciate what you have done for the club and the community."
Penzance mayor Stephen Reynolds praised the visit as "fantastic", noting William had travelled from Brazil's COP summit to Cornwall's "proper Cornish mizzle".
Club representative Simon Taylor described the Prince as "keen, enthused and so passionate", impressed by his detailed knowledge of the project.
Following his visit, William took to social media to express his appreciation for the warm reception in Cornwall.
Prince William posing with members of the consortium who built the new road | REUTERSLATEST ROYAL NEWS:
Prince William speaking with players from the youth team taking part in training, during a visit to Mousehole AFC | PA"Thank you to everyone in Mousehole for an incredible visit today and to all those who made the new road to this football club possible," the Prince wrote on X.
His post continued: "You are a shining example of what can happen when people and businesses come together to create a team to help a community."
The message was signed with "W", indicating the Prince had composed the post personally rather than through his communications team.