Royal Watch News

Prince Charles and Camilla meet celebrity ambassadors

Sep 19, 2012, 12:01 GMT

Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla

Britain's Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla hosted a champagne reception for celebrity ambassadors of a volunteer campaign yesterday (18.09.12).

The royal couple welcomed TV presenter Phillip Schofield, agony aunt Denise Robertson, journalist Kate Adie, Girls Aloud singer Kimberley Walsh, actress Patricia Routledge, TV star Gloria Hunniford and broadcaster Roy Noble to Clarence House to thank them for supporting the Diamond Champion scheme, which celebrated the contribution of volunteers aged over 60.

The award scheme has been launched by the older people's charity the WRVS, with Charles and Camilla as its patrons, and the organisation are encouraging people to nominate those who make a difference to the lives of others in their community through voluntary work.

The royal couple will meet with 80 finalists at an event later this year.

'This Morning' host Phillip said the scheme made 'volunteering sexy'.

He said: 'There are so many things that people are out there doing, volunteering is certainly more sexy these days.

'And off the back of the Olympics we have got to strike while the iron is hot, there is a real opportunity to encourage volunteering.'

'Keeping Up Appearances' actress Patricia admits being a Diamond Champion judge is tough.

She said: 'It is impossible to pick out one from another, they all do such a wonderful job.

'But this is an absolutely terrific scheme, and recognises the hundreds of people who give up their time to volunteer for so many good causes.

'We have been the nation of volunteering recently with the Olympics with young and old people turning out to help.

'Volunteering is a wonderful thing and it is marvellous to be part of this.'