A SPOT of tree planting was the order of the day when Prince Charles made a special visit to Bramshill Police College in north Hampshire.

The recently-wed royal visited the college, near Hartley Wintney, on Wednesday, chiefly to honour the courage of Northern Ireland's police.

The prince, who flew in by helicopter, opened a new room dedicated to the Royal Ulster Constabulary George Cross Foundation, which has close links with the college.

He also planted two trees to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Bramshill Mansion, which was visited in 1961 by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

He spent more than an hour touring the college, which included a look at "The Prince of Wales Room", and met staff, students and RUC officers before signing a guest book below a self portrait.

Prince Charles, who is a patron of the RUC George Cross Foundation, spoke of the bravery of officers and families as he unveiled a commemorative plaque.

He said: "This room will be a constant reminder of the extraordinary courage and self-sacrifice of those who served in the RUC and, of course, their families. The history of the RUC, as you know, is nothing short of inspirational."

North East Hampshire MP James Arbuthnot, who attended the royal visit, was expected to be among guests greeting the prince, but said nobody had told him he was supposed to be part of the welcome party.

However, the MP was not put out. Noting that he has met the prince before, he said: "Some people at this occasion have never met him, so I think it's more important that they get the chance."

First published: Friday, June 3, 2005