Prince William came face-to-face with a larger-than-life Paddington Bear as he stepped out on to the red carpet in Shanghai. The royal was attending the premiere of the British film as part of his tour of China.
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Shaking hands with Paddington, who also gave the Prince the royal salute, William joked that his toddler son Prince George would envy him for meeting the lovable children's character.
William held a look of amusement as he gamely stood next to the entertainer and photographers snapped away.
© Photo: Rex
Prince William joked that his son Prince George would 'envy' him for meeting the lovable children's character
Before the screening, which was attended by a host of Chinese film stars and producers, the Duke of Cambridge told the 500 guests that he hoped more Chinese people would consider studying film in his native country.
He also thanked Paddington Bear for escorting him up the carpet, and revealed that he is a big fan of the character who is originally from Peru.
© Photo: RexPrince William revealed that he was a big fan of Paddington Bear
William has made the trip to the Far East to promote relations and business partnerships between the UK and China. On Monday night the Prince was tasked with opening the Great Festival of Creativity – a business exhibition in Shanghai that showcases British companies in the hope of enticing future Chinese business partners.
Before the premiere on Tuesday, William visited the Shanghai Film Museum and also made a stop at the Nanyang High School where he took part in a Premier Skills football coaching event.
© Photo: Getty ImagesAs president of the Football Association, Prince William showed off his sporting skills
As the most famous Aston Villa fan and president of the Football Association back home, William showed off his own sporting skills and kicked about a few balls. The second-in-line to the throne high-fived the youngsters and spoke to them about Britain's famous football export, David Beckham.
"The Duke told the children that if they keep on working hard hopefully one day they might play in the Premier League," said former professional football coach Paul Hughes, who was showing William around.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPrince William told youngsters that one day they might meet David Beckham if they practised hard
"He asked them if they knew who David Beckham was, and said that if they got involved in football then one day they might meet him," said Paul. "The Duke was interested in how football helps build confidence, self esteem and promotes good health, and how the game is going to become a big focal point in schools here."
The sport will soon become part of the national curriculum in China.
William, who met President Xi Jinping at the start of his three-day trip, will travel to Yunnan province for the final part of the tour. The Prince will visit an elephant sanctuary and nature reserve and promote a cause that is very close to his heart – combating the illegal wildlife trade.
