SCORES of excited people braved the rain to catch a glimpse of Prince Charles as he visited Cumbria today - a county which he is said to be ‘very fond of.’

Stopping first at the Staveley Mill Yard, the Prince was greeted by locals who waved Union Jacks and screamed in delight at his arrival.

Patrick and Louise Moore, owners of ‘More? The Artisan Bakery’, said His Royal Highness was a “gentleman” as he spoke to them about their business and the range of products they make.

Mr Moore also explained how the bread was made, before his seven-year-old daughter Milly presented Charles with a basket of their speciality goods.

“I think the Prince understands the ethics of our bakery and it’s been a real pleasure to meet him and speak to someone who is so knowledgeable,” said Mr Moore.

“I think he was impressed with the treacle bread with walnuts and raisins.”

After a tour of the bakery, the Royal visitor was taken to furniture workshop and gallery Waters and Acland, where he looked, felt and even smelt the wood and leather products.

He was shown around by owners Oliver Waters and Will Acland, whose children Oscar and Lily gave him a chopping board and peg board made on the premises.

Mr Acland’s wife Holly laughed about the Prince’s comments. She said: “It was funny that he mentioned the cushions in the room - they are the simplest things here!

“He also joked with the children and said he was sure they’d rather be doing something more fun than this on their school holidays.”

After a quick chat to children stood outside, His Royal Highness got to see the workings of Hawkshead Brewery, where he also spoke to other people involved in Staveley Mill Yard.

Sandra Blackburn of Pure Lakes, said: “He asked me what we did and I told him we made natural skincare. He was interested in the ingredients used and was just really friendly and relaxed.”

The Prince then pulled his own pint of Windermere Pale which he described as ‘tasty’ and ‘hoppy,’ before unveiling a plaque to commemorate his visit and the tenth anniversary of the Brewery.

Press Secretary, Patrick Harrison, said Prince Charles was very keen to visit Staveley: “He loves Cumbria and the mill area is a fantastic example of how an old site can be used to support local businesses, which the Prince is very interested in.”