United Kingdom, Jan. 21 -- Prince William "absolutely loves pubs".

The Prince of Wales is keen to help save local ale houses after data showed an estimated 15,000 pubs have closed in the UK since 2000 because he sees them as the heart of the community.

During a trip to Scotland, William and his wife Catherine, Princess of Wales, spent time at The Gothenberg pub in former mining village Fallin, where the prince ordered half a pint of cider.

According to the Daily Telegraph newspaper, William told a table of local men, including publican Rob Donaldson: "I want to help pubs. This is the best place to come and get to know each other.

"[Pubs are] the heart of the community.

"I grew up in pubs. I absolutely love pubs."

William was told ho...