THE word on the streets of Middleton-in-Teesdale is that they are very, very clean. It is the first thing that anyone in the village mentions when asked about the impending visit of the Prince of Wales.

Prince Charles is coming to Middleton today to open Kirk Caryn House, a new building at the Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services (Utass) centre.

The Prince visited the centre in 2002 and was so impressed with its work he agreed to come and open the building, which will provide a youth drop-in centre and offices.

After his visit to Utass, he will be talking with local farmers who he met on his first visit.

Finally, he will be switching on the village's Christmas lights with the help of the Queen - Carnival Queen Samantha Proffitt that is.

There is no denying the visit has gripped the imagination of the village and, as well as the pristine streets, shops and businesses have been making an extra effort to look good.

But a new coat of paint at Chambers Chemists is entirely coincidental to the visit according to its owners.

"This has been booked for weeks, I'm just doing it now because the weather's good," said Arthur Brunningham.

At Utass and the Teesdale Hotel, where Prince Charles will meet the farmers, staff were yesterday busily tidying.

Diane Spark, Utass project manager, said: "It is pretty hectic, but we are really looking forward to it. We are delighted he's coming back."

Bernadette Falconer, owner of the Teesdale Hotel, is equally proud to receive the royal guest.

"We've had some famous guests before - I can't remember their names - but actors from Grange Hill and When the Boat Comes In, and I think John Craven visited.

"We only took over in April but we are honoured to have Prince Charles and we are all really excited," she said, before admonishing some builders installing a cash machine at Barclay's Bank next door.

"I hope that's going to be cleaned up - do you know who's coming tomorrow?"