The Prince and Princess of Wales saw a walkabout in Cornwall today disturbed by a lone protestor who was bundled away by police.
The couple visited the National Maritime Museum Cornwall during an afternoon of engagements in the harbour town of Falmouth and had taken time to greet wellwishers who had turned out to say hello.
But while shaking hands with those gathered outside the museum a man could be seen holding up a blank sheet of paper who was pulled from the crowd by police and led away.
He was kept away from the royal couple until they left but wasn't arrested and later told reporters at the scene: "It's the 21st century and we don't need a monarchy anymore."
The couple's visit to Cornwall marks their first official trip to the area together since receiving special new titles.
Prince William became the heir apparent – and known as the Prince of Wales – after the death of his grandmother and the accession of his father King Charles to the throne.
He also inherited the title Duke of Cornwall and is now the Duke of Cornwall and Cambridge. Kate is now known as the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge.
At the museum, the couple greeted wellwishers who had gathered outside with some bringing beautiful flowers for Kate.
Inside, they met staff working on the refurbishment of Kiwi - a 14ft sailing dinghy that was wedding gift for the late Queen and Prince Philip from the Royal New Zealand Navy.
They also chatted to young people and watched local school children take part in a model boat race.
They later visited a community hub, where they chatted to young people as well as mothers and their babies.
A spokeswoman for the couple said: "The Duke and Duchess will learn about Cornwall's maritime heritage before visiting a local community centre, which is going the extra mile to give opportunities to individuals while building a supportive and cohesive community."
The incident today comes as anti-monarchy protests are being planned to coincide with the coronation in May.
Republic, which campaigns for an elected head of state, is vowing to stage stunts in the run-up to Charles’s May 6 coronation, as well holding a large demonstration on the day.
Meanwhile, there has been a string of other incidents lately, including eggs being hurled at Charles.
In December, royal security chiefs ordered a review of the King’s safety amid fears his Christmas walkabout may be hit by protests - although thankfully the walkabout passed off without incident.
A source with knowledge of the discussions previously said police chiefs are "concerned" at the possibility of further disturbances.
