Castlebay

Today's the day .................... to wave to a prince

This is the place where we are staying on the Hebridean Island of Barra.

It's called Castlebay and it's the place where the main ferry comes in from other larger Hebridean Islands. There are two hotels, a few shops and cafes, a supermarket, bank, post office and Tourist Information office - and that's about it. But for all that, it seems to be full of life with lots going on. It's very easy to get to know people here - because you keep seeing them.

Today was a big day in Castlebay - because Prince Edward came to visit. He landed in his helicopter a few miles out of town and then was driven in by car (with a flag on the roof) to the Community Hall. Here, he and Sophie had a cup of tea and looked at displays of work put on by some of the Voluntary Organisations that are to be found on the island. Apparently, Edward and other members of the Royal Family have a soft spot for Barra because they used to come on holiday in the Royal Yacht Britannia and anchor off the coast here at Vatersay.

We were just walking along the road when they left to go back to the helicopter. Will gave Edward a wave - and he waved right back ...................