Loo used by Camilla is auctioned

A toilet seat used by Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, during an impromptu visit to an East Sussex pub is being auctioned for charity.

The duchess arrived unannounced at the Hare and Hounds in Framfield, East Sussex, and used the facilities before attending a funeral in the village.

Landlady Chris Azerkane, 52, said when Camilla turned up she did not know whether to curtsey or bow.

The seat is being auctioned to raise funds for two London hospitals.

Mrs Azerkane said: "I went to open the latch on the door, then low and behold Camilla was standing there. She smiled, said hello and I thought 'What do I do? Curtsey or bow?"'

"She asked if she could use the toilet and I said 'Of course you can. The toilet still needs to be decorated, but they are spotlessly clean'. She said 'It's fine, don't worry'.

'Touched by royalty'

She added: "She was immaculate in a midnight blue wool coat with a velvet collar.

"I think she would find it quite funny. She'd be amused, she's very down to earth.

"It's only going to go in the bin when we redecorate, but if we can get some money for it, that's something worthwhile."

She added: "I've never sat on a public toilet, but after she left I went in there and said 'My derriere has been touched by royalty'."

The funds collected will be split between the Royal Brompton and King's College hospitals in London that are treating her 16-month grandson Omar for lung disease.

Her husband Rafai, 52, is organising a sponsored motorcycle ride from East Sussex to Marrakech in September.