SCHOOLCHILDREN from Poole were thrilled to make the acquaintance of royals at the Commonwealth Day service.

The group of four Year 6 pupils, who attend Buckholme Towers School, attended the prestigious event at Westminster Abbey on Monday, March 12.

Not only did the youngsters see members of the royal family who were at the Westminster Abbey service, they met the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Head teacher Ruth Darvill said the children “enjoyed chatting to the prince and telling him about their school”.

“They were delighted that he took a real interest in their badges and what they had to say. It was a truly memorable experience and one that I am sure will stay with them for the rest of their lives,” she said.

Celebrated across the Commonwealth, the day was an opportunity for each of the institution's 53 member states to highlight the positive values of the family of nations.

In her Commonwealth Day message, which was printed in the event's order of service, the Queen praised the "Commonwealth connection" that allows people from different nations to bond and celebrate "diversity".

Mrs Darvill said: “Despite the damp weather conditions, the children were thrilled to be able to attend and to take part in such a prestigious event. The service was a truly special occasion and deepened the children’s understanding of the Commonwealth and its values.

“They listened attentively to the readings, prayers and choral pieces and were particularly impressed by the Maori and gospel choirs.

“The icing on the cake was the chance to not only see the whole royal family but to actually meet and speak to Prince William and Kate.”

Members of the royal family arrived ahead of the Queen including the Prince of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall, Duke of York and Princess Royal as did the Prime Minister Theresa May.

Screams and shouts from the public greeted Meghan and Harry when they arrived.

The Commonwealth has played an important role throughout the Queen's reign, and she takes a special interest in the family of nations.

During the service Theresa May gave a bible reading, former One Direction band member Liam Payne performed singer-songwriter John Mayer's hit song Waiting On The World To Change, while the Portsmouth Gospel Choir sang Bridge Over Troubled Water.

Also among the 2,000-strong congregation was the prime minister of Malta Joseph Muscat, Commonwealth Secretary-General Baroness Scotland, high commissioners, ambassadors, senior politicians from across the UK and Commonwealth, faith leaders and more than 800 schoolchildren and young people.