A professional footballer has praised the King and Queen Consort for visiting a youth centre and said he hopes that it will lead to more support for the organisation in the future.

Leyton Orient defender Omar Beckles said he felt it was “really positive” to meet Charles and Camilla during their visit to Project Zero in Walthamstow.

The organisation, which is based in a community centre in Grange Road, aims to encourage young people to get involved in activities such as music and sport, and help them with employment and campaigns to reduce knife crime in the area.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Omar Beckles discussed the importance of Project ZeroOmar Beckles discussed the importance of Project Zero (Image: Newsquest)

At one point the pair sat down with Mr Beckles, who is an ambassador for the hub, and Trevor Duberry, who is head of engagement at Leyton Orient.

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The King asked questions about the club’s connections with Project Zero and Walthamstow, as well as asking about Mr Beckles and Mr Duberry’s involvement in football.

Discussing his involvement with the project, Mr Beckles told the royal couple: “I try my best to use my platform as best as possible, engaging the younger lads who are aspiring to be footballers as well.”

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: King Charles in WalthamstowKing Charles in Walthamstow (Image: Joseph Reaidi)

Speaking after the conversation, Mr Beckles said: “It was positive. Their presence is enough to know that there’s a level of interest in what’s going on at the ground level, which is really good.

“I do believe time will tell how much of an impact this visit has. There is a lot that needs to be done in regard to supporting the infrastructure within Waltham Forest. Maybe lack of resources that some of the kids are missing out on.”

He added: “I think giving kids access is a pivotal part [to their future success].

“I never had any footballers visit me in school. I missed out on the opportunity of visiting the Queen during her Jubilee.

“But these kids are getting access to footballers, they’re getting access to royalty, and I think it’s gonna play a massive part in their aspirations and what they can achieve in life. I think that’s priceless.”

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Project Zero founder Stephen BarnabisProject Zero founder Stephen Barnabis (Image: Joseph Reaidi)

He added that he hoped that Project Zero’s founder, Stephen Barnabis, would one day receive an OBE, MBE or knighthood for his work in the community.

The footballer explained: “He is a local hero and truly a living legend to these kids. So I’d really like to have that acknowledged.”