In his days as Prince of Wales, he was a regular visitor to Sunderland and County Durham.
We saw him try his skills at bowls, test out the driver’s seat in a car at Nissan, and don a hard hat for a visit to Pallion shipyard.
But most of all, we saw him chat with members of the public and they took him to their hearts. Let’s re-live those precious moments and perhaps you can spot someone you know.
9. Proud on parade
Prince Charles chatting with some of the members of the Sunderland branch of the 1st Airborne Association as he left the Crowtree Leisure Centre in 1978. Photo: Sunderland Echo
10. A chat at the University
Prince Charles in 1996 during a visit to the Sunderland University, St Peters Campus. Were you there? Photo: SE
11. A wonderful turnout in Seaham
Didn't they look so smart for the visit of Prince Charles to Seaham in 1978. Photo: SE
12. Share your own memories
He made such an impression as Prince of Wales. Were you in one of these Sunderland Echo archive photos? Tell us more by emailing [email protected] Photo: se