The King and Queen of Lesotho have been on touring the Diocese during a three-day visit to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Durham Diocese - Lesotho LINK.
The partnership has seen the establishment of two orphanages, keyhole gardens built for child-headed households so they can grow their own food and 600 youngsters taught about HIV/AIDS awareness.
Their Majesties King Letsie III and Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso were welcomed by the Bishop of Durham Rt Revd Paul Butler, Lord Lieutenancy of Durham Mrs Sue Snowdon and members of the LINK.
The entourage Venerable Bede Church of England Academy in Tunstall Bank, Sunderland, the National Glass Centre and the Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Service (in recognition of King Letsie III's interest in farming).
The Revd Margaret Bianchi, Executive Director of the Durham-Lesotho LINK said: "I am delighted that their Royal Highnesses have been able to accept Bishop Paul's invitation and be with us to celebrate thirty years of the LINK.
"The King has often attended significant LINK events in Lesotho, he is also patron of the Lesotho Royal Lifesaving Society which the LINK set up, so it is fantastic that he is able to be here and for us to show him around the Diocese taking in places and areas of mutual interest.
"The Link is important because of its long term commitment to Lesotho, particularly working with youth and vulnerable people.
!It models a realistic style of sustainability and, through the partnership, enables people in Durham to gain an understanding of developing world issues."
The King also enjoys watching cricket and they royal couple also had the opportunity to watch Durham vs Yorkshire in the 20:20 Cricket at the Emirates Riverside Stadium in Chester Le Street.