In 26 pictures: Prince William spends the day in Hastings

Prince William arrived at Rock-a-Nore, just after 11pm, after travelling down on the East Hill Lift.

He stopped to greet and chat to a small crowd who had gathered near the Fishermen’s Museum, including four-year-old Arthur Turney, who was dressed as Spiderman. Arthur told the Prince he would go for a swim, "when I get older". "Today is the chance to swim,” William told him. "Go and make a big splash!"

The Prince met local historian and net shop owner Steve Peak and the museum keeper Steven Roberts-Pratt.

Mr Peak chatted to the Prince about the origins of the net huts and the history of the local fleet. He then moved onto the fishing beach where he was met by a group of Hastings fishermen, including chairman of the Hastings Fishermen's Protection Society Paul Joy, who explained some of the challenges facing the local fishing industry. The Prince then scaled a ladder to go on board the boat Senlac Jack, part of the local fishing fleet.

He was then presented with a copy of the book Generations by John Cole, wrapped in a tea towel made from a design featuring the net shops by the famous artist and illustrator Robert Tavener. Prince William chatted to members of the Hastings Winkle Club and was presented with a silver winkle.

At Hastings Adventure Golf, he played a few holes of crazy golf with club members David and Marion Hartley. The Prince was keen to show off his golfing skills, although the heir to the throne failed to score a hole in one. “The whackier it gets the better I’ll probably do,” he joked.

While at the golf courses he met with young people who are supported by XTrax, a youth charity in the town.

The Prince then visited the Old Observer Building and met director and founder of Hastings Commons Jess Steele, who told him how the iconic building had been saved from dereliction.

He also met and spent time chatting with young people the the Hastings Youth Commons, based at Eagle House, close to the Old Observer Building.