The Prince of Wales has made good on a personal promise to a Cornish football club by officially opening a vital new access road, finally solving a debilitating pothole problem that had plagued the team and its supporters.
A Royal Intervention
Prince William travelled to Trungle Parc, the home ground of Southern League Division One South club Mousehole AFC, to cut the ribbon on the new route. The prince, a known football enthusiast and Patron of the Football Association, had personally stepped in after learning of the club's logistical struggles. The previous road leading to the ground in the village of Paul, near Land's End, was so riddled with potholes it created a significant headache for visiting teams and home fans alike.
Upon hearing about the plight of the most westerly club in the English leagues last year, William took action. Although the football ground is not situated on Duchy of Cornwall land, the prince, in his role as Duke of Cornwall, was keen to support the remote community. He and his Duchy estate worked to form a consortium with building materials group CRH to find a practical solution to the access issue.
Transformation in Just Four Weeks
During the visit, the Prince was informed that the remarkable transformation was completed in a mere four weeks. He shared a joke with the contractors, suggesting their impressive speed would now set a new expectation for other projects.
"Thanks, guys I really appreciate what you have done for the club and the community," William told them. He acknowledged the unique challenges faced, adding, "It’s in a grey area, it’s hard for the club to get funding, but by working together, it got done."
A Boost for the Club and Community
The impact of the new road was immediately celebrated by everyone involved. The visit attracted about 250 local people, including many children. The prince was warmly greeted, especially by the club's under-10 players who mobbed him for handshakes and photos.
Long-time supporter and board member Norma Richardson, who has followed the club for over three decades, emphasised the family feel of the organisation. "This is a small club, what brought me here was our boys playing football. It may be a small club, but it feels like a big family," she said.
Supporter Simon Taylor explained the profound difference the project has made. Attendance levels have surged by roughly 50 people, now reaching about 200 per match. He described how the old road caused congestion in the village, deterring even home supporters. "I can’t put into words what this new road means for the club. It makes such a massive difference," Taylor stated, noting that the project has also attracted new volunteers, further strengthening community ties.
He praised the Prince's engagement, saying, "What William did on the pitch with the players and the youngsters is incredible... It was like he knew all about it – which is remarkable. I am a very happy man today."
