THE PRINCE of Wales had a good-natured dig at his mother’s long-running reign during a visit to the country that bears his title.
The 64-year-old heir to the throne was touring the birthplace of writer and poet Dylan Thomas during a whistle-stop visit to the principality.
Charles has agreed to become royal patron of DT100, the planned celebrations to mark the centenary of the Welsh bard’s birth in 2014.
However, as he approaches a landmark 65 himself, still the official retirement age for men, his long-awaited future role was clearly on his mind.
Charles was taken on a tour of 5 Cwmdonkin Drive in Swansea by Anne Haden, who has played a major part in renovating the house.
Thomas was born and grew up in the property, which has now been returned to a condition he would recognise from his childhood.
Present to greet the Prince as he was conducted on his tour was Jeff Towns, the new chairman of the Dylan Thomas Society.
Also present was John Rhys Thomas, the society’s former chairman.
“He is the new kid on the block,” Mrs Haden said of Mr Towns as he was presented to Charles.
“Never easy handing over,” the Prince said with what appeared to be a knowing grin as he left the room to view the adjacent kitchen.