FAMILIES paying tribute to the war dead in Wootton Bassett were given a surprise this Remembrance Sunday when Prince Harry joined the congregation.

The prince, who had been in Swindon only a few days earlier to officially open the remembrance garden at Lydiard Park, turned up unannounced on Sunday at the St Bartholomew’s Church service.

He took a seat next to town mayor Mary Champion during the service and chatted to members of the congregation afterwards and even posed for photographs with some of the children.

Councillor Champion said: “It was just so natural for him to be in Wootton Bassett.

“He didn’t want anyone to know or a big fuss – he just wanted to be a member of the congregation.

“Me and the vicar knew he was coming but no-one else in the town did.

“It was a lovely service and it was great to see plenty of children there.”

Coun Champion was lucky enough to have a chat with the prince and introduce him to her granddaughter Alice Davey, 12, who was her consort while she was deputy mayor last year.

Town councillor Chris Wannell said it was a lovely surprise for townsfolk.

He said: “It was a great surprise. We did not know about it until we were all in the church.

“He was absolutely wonderful with the children and he said that he thoroughly enjoyed the service. The church was absolutely packed and no-one had any idea he was coming until he walked in and took a seat next to the mayor.

“I spoke to him and welcomed him to our town and said how nice it was for him to come to Wootton Bassett.

“I asked if he was coming to have a cup of tea at Ridgeway House but he said he had to go back.

“I think that it was a great honour for the town.”