PRINCE Charles has been in Folkestone this afternoon.

He was at Risborough Barracks watching training exercises for regular and reserve troops before they head to Iraq.

The barracks is the headquarters of the Operational Training and Advisory Group, which prepares every soldier for peace-keeping missions.

He was joined by the Duke of Westminster and together they spoke to the personnel about what they can expect in Iraq.

Prince Charles said: "I have been tremendously impressed by what I have seen here today with both reservist and regular servicemen and women training side by side and I will be watching with pride and concern as they go to Iraq.

"Not only do we owe a particular debt of gratitude to all those going to serve on operations abroad and to their families, we should also be grateful for the crucial support reservists receive from their civilian exployers."