The Prince of Wales was in Oxford last night to attend a reception hosted by the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies.

Prince Charles is patron of the centre, part of Oxford University, which was established in 1985 to encourage the study of Islam.

He met fellows from the centre, who teach in various departments across the university, at the reception in Magdalen College, High Street, before giving an address.

The prince said: “I am hugely grateful to so many international friends, backers and well-wishers of the centre for giving their time and resources to establish such an inportant institution in this city.

“There is no doubt in my mind its importance transcends national borders.”

Work has started on a £75m building for the centre in Marston Road, and is due to be completed next year.

The centre includes a Prince of Wales Garden, which is being designed with input from the prince.