An East Renfrewshire schoolboy enjoyed a right royal day out as he joined Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their first official trip to Scotland.

Nine-year-old Ben Longfield Mason was thrilled to be asked to accompany the recently-engaged couple as they toured the Palace of Holyroodhouse during a visit to Edinburgh last week.

Ben was handed the honour as part of his role as an ambassador for the Year of Young People.

Reflecting on his big day in the spotlight, Ben told the Barrhead News: “I was really nervous but, after I spoke to Prince Harry, I calmed down quite a bit.

“It was great. He seemed like a really nice guy and Meghan was lovely too.

“He said that I did a good job escorting them around while they talked to all the groups who were there.

“At the end, he said that we would be able to arrange his wedding – but I didn’t ask for an invite.”

Ben is one of 35 young people chosen to be a part of the Communic18 team, who are helping to influence decisions being made about the Year of Young People 2018.

The Scottish Government is funding the Year of Young People programme as an opportunity for generations to come together.

The aim is to provide a platform for those aged between eight and 26 to give them a stronger voice on issues which affect their lives, showcase their talents and create a more positive perception of them in society.

Ben, who attends Thornliebank Primary School, put himself forward for the role with the help of his mum Sarah Longfield.

She said: “Communic18 was something that I thought Ben would be interested in.

“Eight and nine-year-olds don’t often get their voices heard as much as older children, so I thought this would be a real opportunity.

“Ben might not understand at the moment the importance of what he is doing just now but I’m sure that, when he is older, he will realise.

“He is quite a smashing young man, although I admit to being biased.”

Prince Harry and his bride-to-be have been staging a tour of British cities ahead of their wedding, which will take place at Windsor Castle on May 19.