The Prince of Wales put his football skills on show as he made a visit to Leith Community Centre to support a new community initiative. And he revealed that despite his own passion for Aston Villa, Prince Louis is refusing to commit to a favourite football team – yet.

The Royal Foundation has partnered with Street Soccer Scotland to help bring community interest and support back to Leith Community Centre on the northside of Edinburgh. 

With support from the Community Impact Programme, Street Soccer Scotland, YMCA Edinburgh, and Leith Community Centre are launching Leith United. The new initiative will help provide support for people in the community facing mental health issues, addiction, isolation, and housing difficulties.  

Prince William was able to speak with many people from the community to learn about the challenges that they are facing and how they are tackling them. 

He chatted with Erin, a nine year old, and Shaniah, a ten year old, who have publicly campaigned about several issues in their block of flats. The Prince praised the youngsters, telling them “it’s not easy standing up and speaking. It takes a lot of courage, well done”.

The day was not all chatting, though. The Prince – who is known as Duke of Rothesay in Scotland, the traditional title for the heir to the throne there – donned his trainers and got down to the business of football. He took part in a few drills, looking happy to be active. 

After receiving a poster of his beloved club, Aston Villa, Prince William shared that Prince Louis has skirted the issue of deciding which club to support by cheering on a handful of teams.