The Prince of Wales today joined commuters on a train service established to help regenerate a deprived community.

Charles caught the link between Ebbw Vale and Cardiff that was re-introduced following the closure of the town's steel works.

Until February, a passenger service had not run on the line since the Beeching cuts of the 1960s.

Following a massive cash injection, the line was reopened to help the people of Blaenau Gwent and beyond find work.

During the short ride between Llanhilleth, where the Prince officially opened the village's renovated Miners' Institute, and Ebbw Vale, Charles met one woman who has benefited from the service.

Andrea Morris was returning from a successful job interview at a bakery on the outskirts of Newport when she was asked to speak to Royalty.

"He asked me why I was using the train and I told him I had been to an interview in Rogerstone and that I had got the job,’’ said the 34-year-old from Ebbw Vale, after composing herself.

"He said 'congratulations'. He was lovely. That was the second time I have met him. He came to Newbridge many years ago to open the Aiwa factory and I used to work there.’’