In a ribbon-cutting ceremony with a difference, Camilla – who is president of the organisation – had to contend with a pair of scrapping youngsters.

It was more formal on her arrival at the charity's centre on Windsor Avenue, where she was greeted by Northern Ireland Secretary of State Shaun Woodward, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey and Baroness May Blood.

The skies were overcast for most of the hour-long visit, but the sun broke through the clouds when Camilla stepped into the play area to dedicate a garden seat.

Barnardo's Northern Ireland director Lynda Wilson told a crowd of volunteers and dignitaries: "This area will be a peaceful place for mothers and children, and we'd just like to thank the duchess."

However, Seth Erskine, four, and three-year-old Sam McCann broke protocol after helping Camilla cut a silk ribbon.

When the mischievous pair were told to sit with the duchess on the new seat, they amused the crowd by tussling and having a ribbon fight.

Care assistant Janice Steenson, who cares for the boys at the centre, said: "They're just a pair full of fun. It could have been much worse."

Camilla seemed unruffled, and after the visit said: "It's a wonderful place and I'm so impressed by all the work it is doing. I just hope I can come back again."

Security for the event was tight, and only a handful of locals turned out to catch a glimpse of the woman who, should Charles survive his mother, could be Queen.

The Duchess became president of Barnardo's last year, and the tour marked her first visit to its Ulster facilities.

She follows in the footsteps of Diana, Princess of Wales, who also took on the role, and replaced Cherie Blair, who held the post since 2001.

Diana was president from November 1984 to July 1996 and attended more than 110 events for the charity.

More than 100,000 vulnerable children across the UK are supported by Barnardo's, including many who have been abused or addicted to drugs.

Prince Charles split from the duchess for the visit, choosing instead to attend the Stormont Hotel for a Heritage and Regeneration Conference.

Camilla also took time at the Barnardo's centre to talk with a young mum and son helped by the charity's child bereavement service.

And in the facility's kitchen, she met two chefs from the restaurant, Dr B's, which catered the event.

Supported by Barnardo's, the eaterie, at Bridge Street, Belfast, trains young disabled people in catering.

After seeing the food prepared by its chefs, Camilla promised two of its trainees a one-off spot on her son Tom's TV food show, Market Garden.

The duchess told cooks Ciaran Cush and Samantha Freeney: "My son's a mad keen cook, and if anyone wants to go on his programme, just let me know."

Catering instructor at the restaurant, Andrew Gibb, said they will "definitely" be pursuing the offer.

"She was really genuine, discussing the local produce we use in our food and the menu on offer today."