THE opening of Bancyfelin's new £80,000 play area next month promises to be a right royal occasion, with the Duke of Edinburgh performing the official opening.

Prince Philip has been invited by the Bancyfelin Education Community Trust to unveil a plaque and meet local people on Thursday, April 29.

The play area, approved by council planners in September, consists of an all-weather, impact-absorbing sports pitch surrounded by measuring 25x20 metres, mesh fencing, and four eight metre floodlights. The pitch will be sited on the school field, and will be screened by existing school buildings.

The application, supported by nearby St Clears Town Council, was submitted by agent and resident Bruce Wallace on behalf of applicant Margaret Owen, mayor of St Clears and chairwoman of Bancyfelin school governors.

The call for a sports facility was made as the village, comprising some 110 houses, has no park or playing space. The first sod was cut in December, and work is well under way.

Bruce Wallace, chairman of the Bancyfelin Education Community Trust, said: "We do punch above our weight here in Bancyfelin. It's quite a coup."

He added: "We invited The Duke of Edinburgh because is he has been president of the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA), now the Fields in Trust (FIT), since 1948."

He praised the support of trust secretary Elsa Davies, a former chief executive of the NPFA, in helping secure the royal visit.

Mr Wallace stressed that, although FIT was not connected with the Bancyfelin project, the Prince's interest in the playing field had prompted the invite.

Elsa Davies stressed that her former connection with the NPFA was not the reason for the Prince's visit.

She added: "I know from previous experience that he has strong interest in communities having places for sport and games; he's been president since 1948, and a very active and lively president.

"The Trust is pleased the he is coming to open the playing area.

"It's an honour for Bancyfelin to have such a prominent person opening the court."