The Duke of Cambridge has revealed his wife is encouraging his interest in gardening – so he can share the Prince of Wales’s passion for plants.

Kate is even buying William a horticultural book by BBC gardener Monty Don in an effort to turn her husband’s fingers green.

The duke spoke about his interest in flora and fauna during a visit to Brighter Futures, a consortium of eight community projects in Rhyl, north Wales.

“My wife does all the gardening. I really like it but I have no idea what I’m doing,” the duke said.

William was speaking to Brian Penney, 52, a co-ordinator for Men’s Sheds, part of the consortium and an initiative encouraging isolated men to build things and grow vegetables together.

The duke ribbed the 52-year-old about the tiny children’s watering can he was using, as he was shown the group’s allotment, joking: “It’s good to see you have got really nice watering cans. Nice pink colour.

“That’s a lovely mermaid. Very masculine for the Men’s Sheds.”

William laughed as he added: “I always find something to embarrass people with.”

Mr Penney said afterwards: “He told me Kate is getting him into gardening. She’s going to get him Monty Don’s book.

“He said she wants to get him into it because Charles is into it, so it’s something for them to enjoy together. He was so down to earth, such a nice man.”

William was visiting Brighter Futures to hear how the organisation is supporting the needs of the local community.

The project was started in 2018 and the eight-strong consortium works together to support local children, young people, families and the older generations to participate in the community.