FASHION students in Crosskeys put their skills into action by designing a glamorous dress for the Prince of Wales’ Royal Harpist to wear at the world premiere of a new concerto.

The students were taken on a tour of the gardens at Prince Charles’ Highgrove residence to give them inspiration for their designs because the harp concerto, composed by Patrick Hawes, reflects the different elements and features of the garden.

Ms Jones, who was born in Pembrokeshire, has held the royal harpist position since 2007 and will choose which of the seven Coleg Gwent’s students’ designs is to be made into a gown.

She said: "I would probably have been looking to buy a special dress for the occasion, but working with the fashion and design students is so much more satisfying and meaningful than just choosing something off the peg."

Fashion student Sarah Cooper, 22, from Ebbw Vale, said: "The visit to Highgrove was really inspiring. Although we’d met Claire briefly before, it was good to spend the whole day with her as she was very informative about the garden and pointed out some of the features she particularly liked."

Following the premiere at Highgrove later this year, it is hoped Ms Jones will tour the country performing the concerto while wearing the gown.