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prince william in blue suit holding umbrella © Getty Images

Prince William makes poignant return to Anglesey where he first lived with wife Princess Kate

The area in North Wales holds a special place in the future King's heart

Ainhoa Barcelona
Content Managing Editor
Updated: 2 minutes ago
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The Prince of Wales took a trip down memory lane as he returned to his former air base in Anglesey, North Wales. 

William, who lived on the island as a newlywed with his wife the Princess of Wales, was stationed at the RAF Valley from 2010 to 2013 when he served as an RAF search and rescue pilot.  

On Tuesday he was given a warm welcome at the base in his new role as Royal Honorary Air Commodore, a position he took over from his father King Charles in August last year.

The site is the RAF's only station in Wales and is home to the No 4 Flying Training School, responsible for training the UK's next generation of fighter pilots. Crews at the base are also trained for mountain and maritime operations across the world.

Take a look at the best photos from the visit…

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prince william walking in rain with umbrella© Getty Images

A warm welcome

Prince William was given a warm welcome as he arrived for his official visit. Braving the rain, the royal stepped out with a smile, dressed in a navy suit, a striped tie and a crisp shirt. 

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prince william smiling and laughing in rain© Getty Images

A light-hearted moment

Despite the grey clouds and rain, Prince William could be seen laughing as he shared a light-hearted moment with a member of RAF Valley. 

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Prince William talks to base personnel inside the Air Traffic Control Tower during an official visit at RAF Valley© Getty

Air Traffic Control tower

William was given a tour of the base and met personnel from across the station, who told the royal about their work and day-to-day life at the RAF Valley. 

The first stop of the day was at the Air Traffic Control tower, where William, 42, saw the control rooms and new surveillance equipment.

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Prince William talks to base personnel inside the Air Traffic Control Tower during an official visit at RAF Valley© Getty

RAF Valley plans

He was also told about plans to refurbish RAF Valley's second runway in a project estimated to cost around £44million.

LISTEN: The King's special relationship with the Prime Minister revealed

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