Dengie residents who met Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall described the pair as being “genuinely interested in everyone”.

Up to 100 people packed out the Bell pub in The Street, Purleigh, last week for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of meeting a royal.

Purleigh Community Primary School children were in prime position to greet His Royal Highness as he made a beeline for the crowd as soon as he arrived.

Delighted villagers who spoke to the Prince of Wales and the Duchess said their was a relaxed feel.

Richard and Caroline Emans, who run Maldon Oysters, spent minutes talking about the history of their company.

Mr Emans said: “They were very interested in how we have regenerated the fishery.

“They were lovely and charming.”

See this week's Standard for a picture special of last week's royal visit, and reaction from villagers.