EXCITED pupils cheered and waved Union Jack flags as they welcomed a Royal visitor to their Chaddesley Corbett school.

Prince Edward visited Winterfold House School to officially open its new performing arts centre and unveil a commemorative plaque.

The youngsters watched as he landed in their school field by helicopter and waved their flags as his car made its way to the school entrance.

The Earl of Wessex was then given a tour of the school before seeing a short drama production and listening to two short pieces by the school’s choir and orchestra.

Linda Price, registrar, said: “He was great with the kids. He really got down and talked to them. .

“The children loved it. They were out there waiting for the helicopter and it flew past them before it landed on the playing field so they were so excited. As the car came down they were all waving and cheering.”

As well as the new centre, which cost about £500,000, a £1 million classroom block was built at the school last year.