Prince talks fitness with Wales

Wales' Grand Slam winning rugby squad were asked for fitness tips by Prince Charles at a reception held in their honour.

Winger Shane Williams said: "We spoke a little bit about the Grand Slam but he was more concerned about training."

"He said he does work out himself," added Wales' top try scorer.

The visit to Clarence House in London was held on the eve of the squad flying out to meet world champions South Africa in a two-test series.

Williams added: "He was more interested in our fitness coach, I think he wants to get fit and play some rugby.

"I was quite impressed with how knowledgeable he was about the game"
Captain Ryan Jones

"I've had some nerves in games but it was also nerve wracking meeting the likes of Prince Charles.

"It was quite intimidating just the build-up, that's the hard bit. But he's a really nice guy and put us all at ease."

Led by captain Ryan Jones, the team showed the prince their RBS Six Nations trophy, won at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff in March.

Jones said: "It's fantastic to be here, a real opportunity. There's not many people who can say they've popped into Clarence House on their way to the airport.

"I was quite impressed with how knowledgeable he was about the game, he was interested in everyone's job.

"It was a huge honour for me, one of the perks of being captain, to be able to introduce him to the players."

The latest event followed a celebratory concert, attended by the squad, at the Millennium Stadium on Monday.

Coach Warren Gatland said meeting the prince was a "fantastic experience" for the players.

He said: "We spoke about New Zealand, where I'm from and being a Kiwi and what I've done for the side.

"It's a fantastic experience to be here, you can smell the history here. It's fantastic to have the opportunity to bring the squad here before going out to South Africa."

At the end of the reception, the team presented Charles with a framed Welsh rugby shirt.

Wales were undefeated in this year's RBS Six Nations, earning a Grand Slam victory in their final match against France.

The team will play in South Africa for the Prince William Cup.

Prince William, royal vice patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, was in the stand to cheer on the team against France to clinch the Grand Slam.

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