IT was a proud moment for Cyril Dawes when he met the Prince of Wales.

Cyril, of Chester Road in Greenbank, had become increasingly concerned about bored youths, smashing property for kicks and unable to settle in school or industry.

So nothing much has changed over the years.

As a senior probation officer Cyril formed a committee in 1970 - and the Cheshire Probation Outdoor Pursuits Camp was founded.

A grant from the Prince's Trust got the project off the ground and it was in 1976 that His Royal Highness met Cyril to see how the money was being spent.

Cyril's idea was to get these young people to realise their responsibilities to others through camping, canoeing, water skiing sailing and climbing, to become involved and therefore keep out of trouble.

"It was hard going at first and we didn't get much support at the time, although I do remember Broadhurst's giving us food for the camp, which was at Capel Curig in Wales" said Cyril, now aged 89.

"As time passed people's attitude did get a bit better when they saw how successful it was."

During his visit to Winsford, Prince Charles took a keen interest in the survival rations shown to him and was photographed looking at some Kendal mint cake.

He was also fascinated by the camp's display of equipment and several photographs taken of the camp.