VIDEO: News Letter gains Royal approval
THE Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall showed their impeccable taste during an Ulster visit - by reading the News Letter.
And in keeping with their lifestyle, the royals couldn't possibly pick theirs up at a newsagent.
They chose to examine one of the first editions of the newspaper when they visited Belfast's Linen Hall Library on Tuesday as part of a day-long visit to the Province.
The 1738 copy of the then Belfast News Letter and Advertiser is a jewel in the crown of the library's collection, hoarded among its most expensive and ancient tomes known as 'the gems'.
When the royal couple were shown a stack of the priceless volumes, Charles singled out the bound copy of an 18th century News Letter.
Gently lifting the edition, librarian John Killen told the royal: "Well spotted – this is one of the oldest newspapers in the world, unearthed in a restoration project at the library and kept among our most valuable books ever since."
Charles also used the visit to the library to sign two copies of his children's book The Old Man of Lochnagar, which tells the story of an old man who lives in a cave in a mountain which overlooks the royal estate at Balmoral in Scotland.
The warmth of the library was welcome relief from the freezing temperatures of Glenarm where the couple went walkabout earlier in the day.
Camilla was dressed for it, in black leather patent boots, scarf and black fur collar overcoat.
Delayed by the UK's paralysed transport system after snowstorms on Monday, the prince apologised for being late to the library.
It was the last visit of the day and the couple arrived flanked by heavy security, with dozens of surprised workers peering at the royals from the windows of offices opposite the library.
Prince Charles also met dozens of young people who have turned their lives around thanks to his Prince's Trust charity.
At a reception in the library he was applauded when he told them they were "an inspiration".
Among them was Broderic Sloan, who set up a successful plumbing business after being involved in a car crash 10 years ago.
Following major brain surgery he had to relearn to read and write before starting his own company.
He presented Camilla with a bouquet of flowers before the couple left and said: "The things Charles has done are great.
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Weather for Belfast
Thursday 09 February 2012
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Light showers
Temperature: 8 C to 10 C
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