Originally billed as "an everyday story of country folk", Radio 4 soap opera, The Archers, has been graced by royalty. The Duchess of Cornwall, is set to arrive in the fictional village of Ambridge on February 16 – appearing in her capacity as the President of the National Osteoporosis Society.Described by a Clarence spokesperson as a "huge fan of The Archers for many years", Camilla was said to be keen to help the show celebrate its 60th anniversary, as well as "taking the opportunity to talk about osteoporosis".
She filmed her cameo at Clarence House just before Christmas (pictured above).Camilla is not the first royal to appear on the show. Twenty-seven years ago, in 1984, Princess Margaret took part in a short scene as a special guest at an NSPCC fashion fundraising event.And remarkably, despite the long gap, Camilla featured alongside the same actress, Sara Coward (seen with Camilla, and below with Margaret) – who plays Grey Gables hotel owner Caroline Sterling. "It was fascinating to go to Kensington Palace to record with Princess Margaret, and Clarence House was still more fun," said Sara, who has been a firm fixture on the soap since 1979.
"The Duchess was relaxed, charming and wonderfully natural," she added.On Wednesday night, a 'fictitious' message posted on the Prince of Wales' website, confirmed Camilla's visit. "February 16 – The Duchess of Cornwall, President, National Osteoporosis Society, will attend a tea for members, staff and supporters of the Borsetshire National Osteoporosis Society Supporter Group, Grey Gables Hotel, Ambridge, Borsetshire." Other famous faces who have featured on the radio show include Dame Judi Dench, Sir Terry Wogan, John Peel and Alan Titchmarsh.