Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall who has recently shown an appreciation for English wine during her visits to The Denbies Wine Estate in Surrey and the Camel Valley Vineyards in Cornwall, has taken over the role of president of the United Kingdom Vineyards Association (UKVA). She takes over from Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, who will now become an honorary lifetime president in recognition of his long term dedication and commitment to the UK wine industry.

A spokesman from the Camel Valley Vineyards said “her evident interest in English wines makes her an ideal figurehead for the UK wine industry”. Camilla will host next year’s English and Welsh Wine of the Year awards. The chairman of the UKVA said: “We are delighted and honoured that HRH the Duchess of Cornwall has agreed to be our new president. Her support acknowledges the phenomenal growth in awareness of English and Welsh vineyards and wines. We are immensely proud of the achievements of many of our wines and are looking forward to continued success and increased volumes. I would like to extend, on behalf of the English and Welsh industry, our heartfelt thanks to Lord Montagu, whose unfailing support for our vineyards and wines stretches back decades.”