Charles and William enjoy pre-Tattoo treat

THE PRINCE of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge were given a special pre-Tattoo performance at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

It comes ahead of their attendance at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo last night.

Acts gave the royal duo a close-up performance in the courtyard.

The Prince and Duke then spent time speaking with performers and posed for a group shot. Charles, the guest of honour at the annual event, was accompanied by his son William at Edinburgh Castle.

It was the first time they have attended the annual event in Scotland’s capital, which is in its 68th season.

This year’s Tattoo recognises 2017 as being the Year of the Royal Navy, and comes ahead of the forthcoming official naming of the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales later this year.

It is also marking Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology with a second “Splash of Tartan” theme.

Charles, known as the Duke of Rothesay in Scotland, and William, who takes the title the Earl of Strathearn when north of the border, attended the Tattoo around halfway through its August run.

This year’s performance involves a cast of more than 1,200 people from across the globe.

The line-up includes more than 250 pipers and drummers, five UK military bands and the event’s first Japanese act – as well as major contingents from France, India and the United States.

It attracts an annual audience of around 220,000.

This year’s tattoo runs until August 26.