A'DELIGHTFUL' AND EMOTIONAL TRIP TO NEPAL

The Duke and Duchess of Edmburgh’s tour was no ordinary royal visit and while there, the couple revealed the secret to their long marriage and why a sense of humour is vital

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The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were welcomed by the "delightful people" of Nepal last week as they made their first official visit to the country, following in the footsteps of Prince Edward's mother Queen Elizabeth II and his brother the King.

Edward and Sophie spent six days in the Himalayan nation, where they celebrated its close ties with Britain and gave a rare insight into their 25-year marriage, revealing they are "best friends".

During a week in which they held hands, exchanged banter and supported causes close to their hearts, the couple flew the flag for Britain and were warmly greeted by dignitaries as well as local people around the country.

"It's been a fantastic opportunity and we've been made to feel staggeringly welcome. The Nepalese are delightful people and very friendly," Edward said as the couple spoke to the travelling media.

During their tour of the South Asian country, which began with a welcome from President Ram Chandra Paudel and First Lady Sabita at the Presidential palace, the couple made history by becoming the first members of the royal family to attend the annual Gurkha attestation parade, a landmark moment for young Nepalis joining the British army and an experience Sophie described as "emotional".