The Prince of Wales embarked on his initial overnight journey since his wife Kate’s cancer diagnosis was disclosed in March, warmly greeted by crowds at Fistral Beach in Newquay.
During the first day of his two-day visit to Cornwall, Prince William, aged 41, spontaneously engaged in a game of volleyball and graciously posed for selfies with well-wishers. The future king even expressed his eagerness to don a wetsuit and hit the waves for a spot of surfing!
Earlier in the day, Prince William’s itinerary included a visit to Nansledan in Newquay, the site earmarked for the Duchy of Cornwall’s inaugural homeless housing project. This initiative, in collaboration with Cornish charity St Petrocs, will deliver 24 homes with comprehensive support services for homeless individuals.
William met with the project’s leaders and St Petrocs’ chief executive, Henry Meacock. Construction is scheduled to commence in September this year, facilitated by land provided by the Duchy.
A spokesperson from Kensington Palace stated, “Since the project’s announcement in February, progress on the Innovative Housing Project in Nansledan has been rapid. Designs are being finalized, and construction is set to commence on-site in September, with completion expected by autumn 2025.
Today marks the first time that The Prince will see the site of the new homes. He is eager to hear updates from the Duchy team on the project’s progress and from St. Petrocs on the anticipated impact on local homelessness. Both His Royal Highness and the Duchy aspire for this project to inspire others.”
Last year, William initiated Homewards – a five-year program under The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales aimed at ending homelessness. While reviewing the plans, William engaged in a conversation with Max, a local who had experienced homelessness himself. “There’s always hope,” remarked Max. “That’s precisely what we aim to provide,” replied the Prince, “Give people like you hope. But it has to be genuine and effective. Is there anything you can pinpoint, any crucial elements, that would ensure success?”
By the conversation’s conclusion, William was heartened to learn that Max was in a “good place” and contemplating joining the Royal Navy.
The new homes in Nansledan have been meticulously designed by local firm ALA Architects, in collaboration with the Duchy, St Petrocs, and the Homewards expert panel. The aim is to maintain the quality and character of Nansledan while offering residents dignity and aiding their integration into the community from day one.
Upon his arrival at Fistral Beach, William was warmly welcomed by a sizable crowd, where he met with representatives from local organizations promoting sea safety and beach awareness in preparation for the upcoming summer months.
The father-of-three interacted with Holywell Bay and Newquay Surf Life Saving Clubs, which train and support volunteers in life-saving techniques for open water.
William observed training demonstrations on the beach, including CPR practice, and amidst engaging with lifesaving club members, lifeguards, and RNLI staff, he couldn’t resist joining in a game of beach volleyball.Top of Form
Afterwards Beck, 13, said: “I can’t believe he stopped to play with us, it was amazing. And he’s got a good serve!”
William also made nine-year-old Phoenix Kanes’ day as he secretly signed his plaster cast and told him: “Shhh, don’t tell anyone. I’m not meant to do that!”
Phoenix’s mother said afterwards: “We didn’t realise that he shouldn’t have done it. We will definitely be keeping the cast as a souvenir after he has it taken off on the 17th of May. I can’t believe it!”
