PUPILS from Kilwinning's Abbey Primary enjoyed a royal appointment yesterday - when they were quizzed by the King.

The children came face to face with King Charles as they visited Dumfries House, near Cumnock.

And they also got the chance for a chat with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who joined the King in Ayrshire to meet representatives of a police initiative to reduce crimes of violence.

The Kilwinning pupils were visiting the estate learning about nature and local wild flora and fauna in an initiative funded by the King's Foundation, which has its headquarters at Dumfries House.

(Image: Jane Barlow/PA) The educational session saw pupils exploring the estate and its outdoor recreation centre.
It aimed to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of the youngsters, boosting their confidence, resilience and teamwork skills.

Charles asked the children: "Would you encourage it to others in your school?"

The children nodded and collectively said "yes" to the King, who replied: "I do hope you have great success because it's marvellous when you learn how things are connected together. We start looking just to see all the details."

Before leaving, he bid the children farewell, joking that he would "leave it in the hands of the experts" and said goodbye.