SHOPPERS did a double take when they spotted Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles trying on diamond rings in a Bolton jewellers shop.

As the Royal couple admired the gemstones, passers-by raised more than a few glances in their direction.

Why were the two sauntering around Bolton's premier shopping centre, without a care in the world?

Shoppers watched open-mouthed as the couple then started looking at engagement rings.

But the Bolton Evening News can today put the record straight. The couple were actually lookalikes Charles Hasleth and Katie Pearsall. They are touring the country as part of the Jubilee celebrations.

The couple stopped off in Bolton and visited the Market Place where they tried on a few diamond tiaras and engagement rings.

Charles, aged 45, stands at least five inches shorter than the future king -- but his attention to detail includes pinning his ears forward, while his mannerisms are exactly the same.

He said: "The reaction has been really good in Bolton. Many adults don't really know how to take us, but the children have been fantastic."

Katie claims that public attitudes have changed towards Camilla in the past few years.

She said: "People have definitely warmed to her. Three years ago, I was booed at the London Palladium. Today, it is all handshakes and smiles."

Bolton pensioner Ellen Greaves stopped for a chat with the couple -- and was very impressed. She told other shoppers: "They look incredibly real -- they even sound like royalty."