Charlene Wittstock 'happy and relaxed' ahead of wedding

Charlene Wittstock looked "happy and relaxed" as she jetted to South Africa for one of her final trips home before becoming a princess in July.

The stunning former Olympic swimmer - who will marry Monaco's Prince Albert on July 2 - was all smiles as she attended a fundraising event in Pietermaritzburg where she handed a cheque to the Special Olympics.

An onlooker said: "Charlene looked incredibly happy and relaxed. She was all smiles as she handed over a cheque. She was clearly happy to be back home before her big day in July."

It came ahead of the 32-year-old bride-to-be taking part in tomorrow's (12.02.11) Midmar Mile swimming event to raise cash for the Special Olympics, which provides training and competition for swimmers with learning disabilities.

Charlene - who swam for South Africa at the Sydney Olympics in 2000 - told reporters ahead of the charity swim: "I'm not here to swim competitively. I'm not swimming in my age group. I'm swimming alongside Special Olympians to raise funds."

The blonde admitted last week she was excited about spending time with friends and family while back in South Africa - and couldn't wait to eat some traditional food again.

She said: "I'm really looking forward to a braai [similar to a barbeque], seeing my friends and if possible even going to a Sharks [rugby] match."