A Leeds University student was left stunned when her painting was purchased by none other than the Duchess of Cornwall.

The surprise purchase came after both the Duchess and the Prince of Wales visited the Ferens Art Gallery in Hull amid the City of Culture 2017 celebrations. Helen Brayshaw’s painting, titled ‘Halved Avocado’ was purchased for an impressive £300.

Helen, who is studying for a master’s degree in Fine Art, tweeted “I’ve never been so thrilled” after the wife of the second in line to the throne singled her work out from the 330 items on display.

“I didn’t think anyone would buy it,” she said of the diminutive eight-by-eight-inch still life. “If you blink you’ll miss it. I was just stunned really.”

Camilla had initially set her sights on a drawing of a greyhound, but, fortuitously for Helen, it transpired that the picture was not for sale.

When asked about the impressive achievement, Brayshaw told The Gryphon that she was still in shock, but is extremely happy that she made the decision to return to University.

“It was a tough decision for me to give up full-time work in order to paint. But being picked to exhibit at the Ferens Open Exhibition and then have my work purchased by the Duchess of Cornwall has proved to me it’s never too late to follow your dreams”.

It isn’t clear where the painting will go, as the Royal couple own various properties, including Clarence House and Highgrove House. However, it is highly likely other members of the royal family will see it.

William Marriott