FHHRN
It’s an unusual sight in Llandudno: a burgundy Leonardo AW139 helicopter from The King’s Helicopter Flight lifting off from Bodafon Field with Prince William on board.
The striking moment, witnessed by local resident Greg Mape, capped off a full day for His Royal Highness.
The Prince of Wales spent Tuesday, November 25 in North Wales highlighting the experiences of young people living in coastal communities.
He began the morning in Colwyn Bay, greeting residents gathered near Porth Eirias before taking a beach walk with members of the Marine Conservation Society’s Youth Ocean Network. He also met volunteers and young people taking part in the society’s Hiraeth Yn Y Môr project.
The Prince then stopped at Youth Shedz in Mochdre, a safe and supportive space for young people dealing with challenges such as school exclusion, bullying or homelessness.
From there, he travelled to Mostyn, the contemporary arts centre in Llandudno, where he joined a comedy workshop led by Welsh comedian Kiri Pritchard-McLean, co-founder of Gwneud, Make, Do.
He took part in a round of “Guess What I Am” with the young participants and helped them plan sketches for upcoming Aladdin and Cinderella performances.
Mr Mape, who captured the helicopter taking off, said: “We saw all the crowds and police on Colwyn Bay front in the morning, so we stopped and went to see what was going on.“
“I had seen earlier in the day that Prince William was visiting North Wales.“
“Later in the day I was in Llandudno, catching up with family, who let me know there was a helicopter on Bodafon Field, so on our way back to our caravan we stopped and watched the helicopter take off.“
“I often watch helicopters land and take off at Manchester Barton Aerodrome, but seeing a royal helicopter was impressive. Also all the police coordination is impressive.”
At Porth Eirias, a lively crowd had gathered — some accompanied by striking dogs — hoping to catch a moment with the Prince. When William arrived, he greeted people with handshakes, posed for photos, and chatted warmly.
One older resident, Angela Jones from Conwy, gave him a hug, which he accepted with a smile.
The 65-year-old said: “I didn’t realise how tall he was. I said, ‘Can I give you a hug?’ and he said, ‘That’s lovely.’”
Angela added that she had met Camilla before.
