Prince Charles lends support to Aylesford Priory

The Prince of Wales has made a donation to Aylesford Priory in Kent, this week and has said he would like to make a private visit. Earlier this year, the Carmelite community and retreat centre launched a one million pound restoration appeal, to pay for urgently needed repairs to their 15th century gatehouse and 17th century barn. A spokesman said: "This donation from the Prince came at a particularly fortunate time, because we have only just learnt learnt that other mediaeval buildings at Aylesford are also deteriorating and in need of urgent attention. Part of a 17th century wall collapsed two weeks ago and emergency work is underway to prop the south west corner of the Gatehouse. Our original one million pound target will now have to be raised to cover these additional costs." He said: "The Carmelite Community at Aylesford are particularly pleased that His Royal Highness has not only helped the appeal but has also expressed a desire to visit Aylesford informally in the near future. It is hoped plans can be put in place for this visit very soon." For more information about Aylesford - visit their website at: www.carmelite.org/aylesford/index.htm