THE Prince took a trip down Burnley's canal to see the full potential of the Weavers Triangle development.

His Royal Highness, wrapped up in a camel overcoat, braved the windy climb up to the Leeds-Liverpool from Centenary Way to get a panoramic view of the town.

He then boarded the Marton Explorer barge to take a 40 minute trip along the water to Sandygate.

The trip had almost been cancelled at the last minute due to poor weather conditions.

A second boat had had to be used to break through the ice on the canal so that the barge could travel over from Foulridge.

The poor weather had also led to a low turn-out with only two members of the public coming to see the Prince off.

Damien Hirst and his daughter Rachel, six, were there to greet the Prince.

Damien said: "I saw the Prince open Queen Street Mill when I was at College, but that was when I was 17.

"Rachel is excited about seeing him because she loves princes and princesses. I hope she is not disappointed."

"I think it will be good to see Charles because he is the future king."