Camilla makes Archers appearance

Britain's Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall made a guest appearance on BBC radio soap 'The Archers' yesterday (16.02.11).

The 63-year-old royal - the wife of heir to the throne Prince Charles - featured on the BBC Radio 4 series in a cameo role, after confessing to being a fan of the show for more than 30 years, even tuning in while on overseas engagements.

Despite having pre-recorded her appearance at Clarence House before Christmas, Camilla paid a visit to BBC Birmingham, where 'The Archers' is based, during the soap's 60th anniversary celebrations.

She said: "I couldn't do without it. In some very tricky situations abroad, I have just switched on 'The Archers' and it has made me feel a lot better. I just hope the next 60 years are as successful. I just want to say a very happy birthday and thank you very much."

Meanwhile, Sir Michael Lyons, chairman of the BBC Trust, paid tribute to Camilla, saying he was "delighted" she is a fan of the show.

He said: "Ma'am, it has been a particular pleasure and great honour to have you with us as our guest today. We thank you for your visit and we are delighted to know that the strains of Barwick Green are often heard in Clarence House."

However, not all 'The Archers' fans were so impressed with Camilla's three-minute performance, which saw her discuss osteoporosis with long-standing character Caroline Sterling (Sara Coward).

Writing on an 'Archers' message board, one fan wrote: "Once again we've been the victims of 'Archers' hype. Is somebody having a laugh? The Duchess of Cornwall turns up, speaks three lines that are the most innocuous conversational nuggets imaginable and that was it!"