Three walking sticks and a horse in royal gift collection

AN ARABIAN stallion, two carpets, a pistol, three walking sticks and a whirling dervish hat – these were just some of the 274 gifts given to the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall on their overseas tours last year.

The duchess received numerous items of jewellery on February's ten-day trip to the Gulf states, whose royal families are known for showering VIPs with lavish gifts.

She came away with a necklace, a brooch and a belt from Kuwait's rulers; a necklace and four bottles of perfume from Qatar's Royal Family, and a watch, bracelet and silver box with pearl inset from Bahrain.

The list was issued yesterday by Clarence House. The gifts can be worn or used but are not considered the royals' personal property. They cannot be sold or exchanged and eventually become part of the Royal Collection.