Harry goes to Harlem on US visit

Prince Harry has visited a children's centre which offers social and educational services on the final day of his official visit to New York.

The prince, 24, tackled an obstacle course and observed a mathematics lesson at the Harlem Children's Zone.

He is also taking part in a polo event on Governors Island to raise money for his Sentebale charity.

The prince chatted with rapper LL Cool J before the match while, at half-time, pop star Madonna arrived at the event.

Actresses Kate Hudson and Chloe Sevigny were among other stars who attended.

Rapper LL Cool J hailed Prince Harry for his charity work

LL Cool J said: "It is definitely an honour you know, I think that it is amazing he has taken the time today to do something for charity.

"As a royal he could quite easily relax and live a life of leisure. But to be raising money and taking the proceeds to African children, it is to be commended."

The prince, who was accompanied by the co-founder of his charity, Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, described his two-day trip as "fantastic" and praised the children zone.

Speaking after the tour, he said: "It was fun. Everything has been fantastic and the sun was shining as well."

Asked whether he thought the visit would boost his public image, he said: "I don't know what the public image is of me."

It's the media that likes to stamp on the image that really is not me Prince Harry Prince of the city

He said that a certain image had been "given to him" but added that people would "have their own opinions".

"It's the media that likes to stamp on the image that really is not me," he added.

Asked if he would like further foreign engagements, he said: "Yes, if I am welcome. We will have to see."

During his visit in Harlem, Prince Harry tasted an African dish which had been made during a cooking demonstration in the centre's cafeteria.Both princes then made their way to the sports hall and took part in a race. Prince Harry claimed victory, as pupils cheered on loudly.

"The school itself is a fantastic project and both me and Seeiso are going to take it back to Lesotho and make it happen," Harry said.

Before taking to the polo field later in the day, the prince spoke of the affection his mother, Princess Diana, had for New York and how she inspired the setting up of the charity.

"Prince Seeiso and I both lost our mothers when we were young. We set up Sentebale in their memory and, because my mother loved this city, it makes this occasion all the more poignant for me."

On the first day of his visit, the prince laid a wreath at the site of the World Trade Center.

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