PRINCE Charles was shown the treasures of Lampeter University's revamped Founders' Library when he visited the town on Thursday.

Out on display for the prince were medieval manuscripts and prayer books including a 13th Century Norman bible — said to be stained with the blood of a murdered monk.

Charles then officially declared open the library, which has 30,000 books and was refurbished in 2008.

He said: "I just wanted to congratulate all those who put so much effort into this Founders' Library.

"I expect large numbers of people have had to carry large numbers of books up and down stairs to make sure these medieval manuscripts have a home where the conditions are more suitable for them."

His visit to the university comes just ahead of the expected news that Lampeter will merge with Carmarthen's Trinity University.

Vice chancellor Medwin Hughes said to him: "We are delighted you can visit us here as our chancellor. You come here at the historic time of change for Lampeter. We hope Her Majesty the Queen will approve in the Privy Council a new charter for these universities being together." He said Lampeter's collection of rare books was arguable the best of any university outside of Oxford or Cambridge.

"I often say these are the unpolished jewels within the University of Wales," he added.

Professor Janet Burton, head of resources Sally Wilkinson and collection curator Caroline Pilcher talked through the rare books on display with Prince Charles.

Professor Burton said afterwards: "I explained all about the history of the book and he seemed really interested."

The works included a beautifully illustrated 13th Century bible, a 17th Century koran and a Buddhist prayer book.

University president Dr Brinley Jones said: "I am always totally impressed by the Prince's commitment.

"He really is genuinely interested and this collection is remarkable. In a sense, we've kept it as a treasure and I know the prince will appreciate that."

As the rain fell at Lampeter, the Prince then met members of the Cambrian Mountain Initiative, which works to promote sheep farming in upland Wales, and witnessed the signing of an agreement to promote rural skills.