BOMB disposal heroes based in Oxfordshire are making final preparations for a visit by Prince Charles.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall will meet soldiers from 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Regiment, of the Royal Logistic Corps, and their families at Didcot’s Vauxhall Barracks.

They will hear about the regiment’s activities making improvised explosive devices (IEDs) safe in Afghanistan and lay a wreath at the Memorial Wall.

Capt Richard Gardner, the regiment’s adjutant, said Friday's royal visit was a “great honour”.

He added: “Princess Anne has visited the barracks in the past but I believe this is Prince Charles’ first visit. We’re delighted that he is coming here, it’s a great opportunity.

“I think the visit recognises the dangerous work the counter IED staff carry out and Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall will gain an insight into the intricate components of our work.

“This an explanation of how we search with dogs, deal with IEDs remotely or manually, and use hi-tech equipment.”

He said: “The royal visit is a way of saying thanks to soldiers serving in Afghanistan.

“Soldiers from the regiment are there every day of the year and many of them are doing extremely dangerous work.”

During the visit, the Elizabeth Cross will be presented to the family of Staff Sgt Brett Linley, who was killed by an explosion in Afghanistan in July last year.

Staff Sgt Linley – from Birmingham and was not based at Vauxhall Barracks – died while clearing improvised explosive devices in Nahr-e-Saraj.

Other operational medals will also be presented.

A spokesman for Clarence House said: “Military engagements form a large part of the work of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall to highlight the amazing work of the men and women of the armed forces.

“They are looking forward to meeting as many soldiers from the regiment as possible.”

Didcot Mayor John Flood will present a cheque for £1,525 to the William and Grace Trust, which assists soldiers from the Royal Logistic Corps.

He said: “The visit is an honour for the troops and for the town.

“These troops have a lousy job to do and they do it so bravely.”

Didcot’s 2009/10 Poppy Appeal raised a record £36,025.81.

Keith Hughes, the town’s Royal British Legion chairman, said: “The generous donations show how much people want to support the troops. They will be pleased to hear Prince Charles is coming to visit. It’s a terrific honour.”