The Prince and Princess of Wales arrived in Boston today at the start of a whirlwind three-day trip to the US.

The couple flew in on a commercial flight from London, landing pouring rain - even as a storm was brewing within the Monarchy back at home.

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The couple were greeted by Governor Baker of Massachusetts, with William, 40, referring to his adored grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, in a statement made upon their arrival, describing her as one of life's great optimists.

He said: 'Catherine and I are delighted to be back in the United States and are extremely grateful to Governor Baker and The First Lady of Massachusetts for their warm welcome into Boston.

'On this, our first overseas visit since the death of my grandmother, I would like to thank the people of Massachusetts and particularly of Boston for their many tributes paid to the late Queen. She remembered her 1976 bicentennial visit with great fondness.

'My grandmother was one of life's optimists. And so am I. That is why last year we launched the Earthshot Prize with the ambition to create a truly global platform to inspire hope and urgent optimism as we look to save the future of our planet.

'To the people of Boston, thank you. I'm so grateful to you for allowing us to host the second year of the Earthshot prize in your great city. Catherine and I can't wait to meet many of you in the days ahead.'