Charles king of castle for birthday

THE heir to the British throne jetted into Cork last night and told a welcoming party: "It's lovely to be here."

Accompanied by partner Camilla Parker Bowles, Prince Charles was immediately whisked from the airport in a motor cavalcade to Lismore, Co Waterford.

The pair will remain in Ireland until Monday and will attend today's 60th birthday celebration of a cousin, Lord Hartington, at the castle of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.