Prince William's Blackpool stag party tour

The Prince made a flying visit to the resort

Prince William breezed into Blackpool on a flying visit at the weekend, taking in a Premier League football match and a trip to the Pleasure Beach.

The prince, 28, watched Blackpool's 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers from one of the hospitality areas with friends.

He then headed to the Pleasure Beach theme park for a private party.

William, who is Football Association president, met Blackpool officials, including manager Ian Holloway.

The prince, who is a fan of Wolves' rivals Aston Villa, was said to be on a friend's stag party.

"I had the privilege of meeting him," said Holloway. "I spoke to him and shook his hand.

"I told him what a cracking lady his mum was and how much we all miss her, and how proud I am of him and his brother.

"I am a common bloke and he reminds me of an ordinary bloke you would meet in the street. Well done sir, it must be difficult.

"Then I told him to leave our women alone if he goes out tonight."

Holloway added: "It's just fantastic, isn't it? I never thought I'd be watched by royalty.

"The future King of England was watching us today."

Riding the National

A spokesman for St James's Palace said the prince was enjoying a private weekend with friends which had been planned for a long time.

A spokesperson for the Pleasure Beach said staff were "delighted" to welcome Prince William to the park.

"The prince made a private visit to Pleasure Beach with a group of friends after watching Blackpool Football Club play at Bloomfield Road," said the spokesperson.

"During the group's visit to Pleasure Beach they rode a selection of rides including Infusion, the Grand National and the Ice Blast."

Councillor Maxine Callow, Blackpool Council's cabinet member for tourism, said: "It was really great to have HRH Prince William in town on Saturday, I hope he enjoyed himself and took in as many sights as possible.

"We would be happy to welcome him back at any time."