A fundraising effort to tell the story of Aberystwyth University’s royal connection has been launched by a film and television graduate.

Fifty years ago, HRH Prince Charles spent a term studying at Aberystwyth University when he was 21 years old.

Sam Wraith, an award-winning graduate from Aberystwyth University with a degree in film and television studies, has begun fundraising to produce a feature length film to tell the story of the prince’s stay in the town.

“It was all part of a publicity stunt that was designed to bring him closer to the Welsh People, prior to his official investiture as the Prince of Wales,” Sam said.

“We will explore Charles’ life, along with the lives of others who were also in the town at this time including a hairdresser, students who lived with him and the reporters who followed him.

“Through a series of interviews, we hope to learn more about his term in Aberystwyth.

“What was it like? How did the residents feel knowing they were sharing the town with royalty? Did he have friends? Did he go for a drink in one of Aberystwyth’s many pubs? Has he stayed in contact with any of his old course mates? We aim to answer these questions and more.”

Sam said he is in contact with Clarence House, asking if they, or Charles himself, would be willing to participate in the documentary, which will feature archive and news footage.

He aims to get the film finished and released by the end of the year to coincide with the 50th anniversary.

See this week’s Aberystwyth paper for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now