The Prince of Wales has paid a surprise visit to British troops on the frontline in Afghanistan.

Charles is the most senior royal to visit the country since the conflict began in 2001.

Charles, a Commander in Chief of ten regiments, spent the night with soldiers at Camp Bastion in Helmand Province after becoming the "the only royal in living memory" to visit Kabul, Clarence House confirmed.

During the two-day tour, the Prince, who wore an armoured jacket with goggles and helmet, visited bases in Nad-e-Ali, where much of the UK's effort was based during Operation Moshtarak, and Lashkar Gah.

After being told of the progress troops were making, Charles left a wreath paying tribute to dead soldiers at Camp Bastion. He was also given a chance to try out British troops' mine clearance equipment.

His spokesman said he had been "very pleased" to have spent time with troops, having been "keen" to make the trip for several years.