Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall congratulated a south London pupil on his achievements at Barnado’s this month.

Charlie Webb, 15, who attends Barnardo's Windermere Construction Centre, in Upper Norwood, met with the Duchess of Cornwall and the charity’s new celebrity ambassadors to discuss his course.

“It’s been an amazing day,” said Charlie. “I first met with the celebrities who were very funny and asked me lots of questions. And later I spoke to The Duchess of Cornwall who was very nice and interested in everything I was doing at Windermere.”

Seven celebrities, including Lynda Bellingham, Melinda Messenger and Heather Small, will become ambassadors of Barnardo’s and will be presented with certificates by Her Royal Highness who is president of the organisation.

Delroy Pomell, Barnardo’s director for London, east and south east England said: “Meeting all the guests has been a tremendous boost for our staff and young people. Everyone seemed to enjoy the day and our guests got to learn more about the work we do with vulnerable children and what can be achieved in our services.”