Our man from the prune - William on farming duty

The Prince of Wales was handed some pruners on arrival at a farm in Herefordshire earlier, cutting back trees in an apple orchard, and also helping out at sheep's feeding time.

But while the prince got jobs done at the 190-acre site run by John and Laura Bowler, the real purpose of his visit was to highlight the importance of supporting farmers' mental health.

And a little humour can go a long way. The moment Prince William appeared, John Bowler, 35, greeted him with: "You're here about the pruning job I think... that's great, I'm planning on going on holiday soon."

January was said to be among the "lowest" point for farmers.

The prince has been patron of Herefordshire-based charity We Are Farming Minds since last March. The group provides counselling, a support line and other mental health support provision.

After a mug of hot cider in the barn, Prince William was taken to the farm's orchard, where he had a go at pruning apple trees.

He also saw Christmas trees growing at the site and visited the sheep pen, where he was mobbed by hungry animals.

The prince wished John's grandmother Betty a happy 92nd birthday ahead of the milestone.

John Bowler described the royal visit as "a massive honour".

He said: "I was trying not to tell [my wife] who was coming to begin with, and she said 'I can't take that day off work' and I was like 'I think you need to'.

"It is amazing he has taken an interest and is coming and promoting Farming Minds and seeing why it is so important. It's an honour and we're really grateful."

Laura Bowler said: "It really gave us a boost at the time of year where really we are at our lowest.

"Everything is broken and you spend the winter fixing everything and making plans for the year, but this is carrying us through, it is something exciting.

"Even if it makes another small farm think 'oh we're actually seen and actually worthwhile', it is great. It gives you a boost."

Charity founder Sam Stables said calls had more than doubled in 12 months as farmers faced issues with inheritance tax and rising costs.

He said farmers were at "breaking point", adding: "We are seeing unprecedented calls to our support line from farmers who are struggling.

"The farming industry is in crisis and having the support of the prince is incredible."

Speaking of his royal patron, he added: "He's incredibly empathetic, he worries about people and is a genuine, decent person, so everything he does to help us is immense and massively appreciated."

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