The Prince of Wales displayed his passion for football this evening as he lent his support to Aston Villa during their UEFA Champions League clash against Celtic FC in Birmingham. In a thrilling encounter, Villa emerged victorious with a 4-2 win, a result that delighted the prince, particularly as he celebrated Ollie Watkins' remarkable third goal. Dressed in a dark blue jacket, paired with a dark jumper and light shirt, Prince William was fully immersed in the match, embodying the excitement that surrounded the occasion.
This latest triumph for Aston Villa follows the prince's recent visit to Birmingham, where he engaged with the local community just two weeks prior. During that trip, he made a surprise appearance at a Wetherspoons pub, where he mingled with Villa fans over a pint, sharing light-hearted moments that showcased his approachable nature. On January 15, shortly after being appointed as patron of the College of Paramedics, he took the opportunity to meet dedicated supporters ahead of a mid-week match against Everton.
Earlier in the day, the prince was active in Guildford, visiting NatureMetrics, a finalist in his environmental initiative, the Earthshot Prize. Clad in a white lab coat and gloves, he participated in the initial stages of DNA extraction from a sample, gaining insights into advanced laboratory processes. This hands-on experience included the use of a DNA extraction machine that deciphers genetic codes, aiding in the identification of various organisms, from bacteria to blue whales. Such initiatives underscore Prince William’s commitment to environmental conservation, as highlighted by the Express.
In addition to his urban engagements, the prince has also been enjoying the rural landscape this week. His visit to Lower Blakemere Farm in Hereford allowed him to meet with Phil and Heather Gorringe, along with their son, Monty. Heather expressed her admiration for the prince’s down-to-earth nature during the visit, which included a tour of their new grain store and regenerative farming equipment. The family also showcased their composting projects on Duchy of Cornwall land, emphasising sustainable farming practices.
Reflecting on the visit, Heather remarked, "He's such a nice guy, isn't he? He seems really down to earth - and miles taller than I ever imagined. And he loved the worms, so that was really great." The 'Wiggly Wigglers wormery,' designed by Heather for domestic waste, particularly piqued William's interest. He curiously inquired, "Wormery? Is that a technical term?" expressing fascination with the composting process. Heather elaborated, "It's like black gold," highlighting the significant value of their composting efforts.
Through these varied engagements, Prince William continues to demonstrate his dedication to both his community and environmental issues, embracing his royal role with a genuine connection to the people he meets. His support for Aston Villa, coupled with his commitment to local and global initiatives, reflects a modern approach to royal duties that resonates with many.