THE Queen and Prince Philip were given a warm welcome as they arrived at International Greetings in Penallta Industrial Estate in Ystrad Mynach today.

A large crowd gathered and waved flags as the car made its way to the factory.

Children, aged between six and 11 years of age, from Ysgol Gymraeg Penalltau sang Calon Lan to welcome them as they arrived and later handed out daffodils.

Pupil, Connor James, 11, said: "It was great to see someone who is so historic and well known in person and to get to sing to The Queen was wonderful."

Head teacher Andrea Woods added: "The children were very excited about the Queen's arrival and have been preparing Calon Lan to welcome her."

The Queen and Prince Philip shook hands with dignitaries outside the factory, including The First Minister Carwyn Jones, before going inside.

The Queen was dressed in a Karl Ludwig pale pink tweed coat and dress and a matching hat from Angela Kelly.

Standing outside the factory, John and Christine Thomas, from Ystrad Mynach, caught a glimpse of The Queen as the car went passed.

Mr Thomas said: "It's a once in a life time experience especially for children and it's a great turn out from the community to welcome her.

"We have never seen her before in person so it's wonderful to have her visit our home town."