The Duchess watched a ridden training session with athletes Deb Criddle and Sophie Wells who put their horses through their paces under the watchful eye of national coach Michel Assouline. This was followed by a walk through the stables to meet the rest of the equine stars and the team support staff whose talents help to keep each combination in tip top condition.

Obviously at ease she greeted each horse, asking knowledgeable questions on breeding and performance as she went. But she was forced to admit her pockets were empty when one of the horses, Felicity Coulthard’s Rofelaar, went looking for a treat. "I usually always come equipped with mints but not today; empty pockets see, I've left my Polos behind!" She said.

Camilla went on to meet riders and team staff of the World Class Para-Equestrian Performance Dressage Squad as well as representatives from the Unicorn Trust, The British Equestrian Federation and British Dressage. She chatted at length, quizzing the riders on their preparations for the upcoming European Championships, September 2011 and next year’s Paralympic Games.

CEO of the British Equestrian Federation, Andrew Finding commented. “It is always an honour to host our patron but it is particularly important in these circumstances for our athletes and support staff to see just how much they’re valued. The Duchess of Cornwall has certainly illustrated that with the interest and support she has shown here today.”