hellomagazine.com

CHARLES PICKS UP THE BEAT IN SIERRA LEONE

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28 NOVEMBER 2006

Prince Charles has been getting into the rhythm of things in West Africa. The future king showed off his musical skills by playing some traditional drums when he was greeted in Sierra Leone on Monday.

The visiting royal was given an unforgettable welcome by local dancers and musicians when he touched down in the country's capital Freetown. And although the prince's grey suit was a little more conservative than the outfits worn by his hosts, who were clad in bright blues and yellows, he soon proved himself more than capable of keeping the beat.

It is the first time since 1961, when the Queen jetted in, that Sierra Leone has received a visit from a member of the Royal Family. In the years since the nation has suffered a brutal civil war, and the first-in-line was eager to encourage the process of healing.

"Our two nations, two Commonwealth partners, share a long and close friendship and I know only too well within the lifetime of everyone here Sierra Leone has suffered so deeply and so tragically," he said.

President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, who staged a lavish banquet in his guest's honour, meanwhile celebrated the warm relationship that now exists between his homeland and the UK. "Although your stay will be brief we hope it will create lasting memories, friendship, trust and goodwill between our two countries," he affirmed.