Harry flies out to work with African homeless

Prince Harry flew to Africa last night for the start of his "humanitarian" adventure.

The 19- year- old, whose recent nights on the town with a string of attractive young women have made headlines, flew out accompanied by royal aides and bodyguards.

He is expected to visit Kenya, Botswana, Tanzania and South Africa, working with the homeless, Aids sufferers and other vulnerable people. Harry is joined by Prince Charles's new communications secretary Paddy Harverson, as well as Scotland Yard protection officers, who will oversee the first part of his eight-week trip.

It marks the end of a week of celebrations at London clubs and pubs as the prince took leave of his friends.

Charles, increasingly concerned about the publicity his son has attracted during his two-year break before starting military training at Sandhurst, asked Mr Harverson, 40, to join Harry.

The prince, who will also be accompanied by his mentor Mark Dyer, will take part in a staged photocall at the start of the trip.

Aides say Charles is keen to avoid the adverse publicity incurred on Harry's trip to Australia.

Mr Dyer nearly sparked a diplomatic incident when he threatened to fly the prince home over "media harassment".