WE'll be back - that's the promise from Prince Charles after he and the Duchess of Cornwall toured Cardigan Castle on Monday.

"This project has enormous potential," he told guests gathered in the courtyard of Green St Cottages.

"You can have community regeneration through heritage - I know I've seen it done so many times. Just look at what has happened to these cottages. We look forward to coming back here when the castle's finished - and I'd like to see it completed in my lifetime!"

The visit proved an enormous boost for Cadwgan Trust, who are putting together funding to carry out a feasibility study on the castle.

"All the blocks are now in place - this visit has really given it the royal seal of approval," said Cadwgan chairman Jann Tucker.

The Prince was given a guided tour of Castle Green House by castle officer David Maynard and Cadwgan trustee Sue Lewis, before walking around the grounds.

Local historian Fr Seamus Cunnane gave a potted history of the castle, while Dr Geraint Jenkins told the Prince about the history of the castle's structures.

The green-fingered prince was also interested in the remnants of the Regency Italianate garden and spent some time chatting to Cadw gardens expert Liz Whittle.

Fred Taggart, director of the Prince's Regeneration Trust, which has provided support for Cadwgan in its bid to get a feasibility study for the castle off the ground, said Prince Charles had taken a personal interest in Cardigan Castle.

"The Prince of Wales has taken a close interest in the project and receives a report on progress every month. This visit, so early in the life of the project, reflects his willingness to help. I am sure the visit by Their Royal Highnesses will put the spotlight on Cardigan Castle and help convince everybody that it is a major heritage regeneration project that will really make a difference for Wales".

And he added: "Cardigan Castle is of immense historic and cultural importance to the people of Wales and, sadly, is really at risk. The Cadwgan Trust has arrived in the nick of time and made terrific progress in six months.

"We are pleased to have been able to help it develop its plans to conserve the site. The trustees should be congratulated for securing enthusiastic support from so many local and national organisations."