The Earl and Countess of Wessex about to sample the bean jar at Le Viaer Marchi. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 0800931)

THOUSANDS of islanders turned out to catch a glimpse of Guernsey’s royal visitors at Le Viaer Marchi last night.

The Earl and Countess of Wessex spent an hour at the traditional fair learning about local arts and crafts and tasting the island’s favourite dishes.

It was the end of a busy day for the royal couple, whose Bailiwick visit continues today.

They arrived by helicopter at Baubigny Schools at 11am to officially open St Sampson’s High and Le Murier, where they were greeted by children from the island’s schools.

The royal couple received a quick but comprehensive tour around the premises before unveiling a granite stone to commemorate the opening.

Deputies, teachers, staff and students looked on as Prince Edward demonstrated his sense of humour – calling on them to cheer as if the unveiling was the most exciting thing they had ever seen.

His speech was well received and Le Murier head Alan Brown said the morning’s events had been a positive experience for students.

‘They’ve all been very excited and the countess was good at engaging with the children, so she put them at their ease,’ he said.

Following lunch with States members, the earl and countess visited the Priaulx Library before being greeted by a crowd of islanders, who had been waiting patiently at Candie Gardens to see them.

The countess and the Lt-Governor, Sir Fabian Malbon, led the way through the grounds.

• View a gallery of the day here.