Emanating from the 17th Century, Launceston’s motto “Royale et Loyale”, was rekindled on Tuesday (July 19) with a visit from Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall.

As the rain began and the thunder clapped crowds gathered in the market square. The Duke and Duchess soon arrived, and were greeted by the Lord-Lieutenant, Edward Bolitho, Mayor Leighton Penhale, Mayoress Gillian Penhale and Town Crier Rob Tremain. The royal visit to Cornwall coincided with the 70th anniversary of Prince Charles becoming Duke of Cornwall. The Duke and Duchess arrived through the narrow and historic streets of this medieval town to throngs of well-wishers, both young and old alike. They alighted in the town square of the ‘ancient capital of Cornwall’ to find it bedecked with red, white and blue bunting and of course, splashes of Cornish tartan and St Piran flags.

After speaking to children in the crowd, the royal couple were treated to a tour of the local artisan market. Organised by Jo Macaskie from Miss Ivy Events, the market showcased the best of local Cornish food, drink, and arts and crafts.

The Mayor, Cllr Penhale said: “It was a great honour and privilege to welcome the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall to the ancient capital of Cornwall and to visit our wonderful town. We were all very excited leading up to the visit and having spoken to many residents, no one was disappointed. This was a very special day in the life of Launceston.”

Stallholders, businesses, residents and visitors alike were delighted to greet Charles and Camilla with many taking the opportunity to steal a photograph or two to immortalise this special occasion.

We have collated a selection of images from the day which we encourage readers to ‘cut out and keep’ so that they might be shared with future generations.