Prince Charles in first visit to Irish Embassy in London

The Prince of Wales made an historic visit the Irish Embassy in London tonight - the first time a member of the British Royal Family has visited the institution.

Charles, joined by the Duchess of Cornwall, met leading figures from Irish society at a special reception hosted by Ambassador Bobby McDonagh at the building in London's Belgravia.

Limerick-born broadcaster Terry Wogan described the visit as “significant”, saying he believed it would lead to a widely anticipated first trip here by the Queen.

Guests at tonight's event included Bob Geldof, former Formula One racing boss Eddie Jordan, singer Val Doonican and comic Patrick Kielty, as well as MPs and peers from the North.

Rumours that the Queen will visit Ireland have persisted for much of the year but Buckingham Palace has always said it does not talk about the Queen’s diary so far in advance and that there has been no official invitation.