THE Prince of Wales highlighted his fears for the farming industry as he guest-edited a special edition of Country Life magazine to mark his 65th birthday.

Charles, who is currently on a tour of India and Sri Lanka and reaches the state pension age on Thursday, worked on the magazine over the summer at Birkhall - his home on the Balmoral estate - and at Clarence House, choosing features, approving and editing proofs, and selecting pictures.

In a 2300-word leader for the 116-year-old weekly rural affairs magazine, the Prince described the British countryside as "the unacknowledged backbone of our national identity" and warned it was "as precious as any of our great cathedrals and we erode it at our peril".

Mark Hedges, editor of Country Life, said the future king worked hard on the edition and had met him in person to discuss it. Around 900 emails were sent in connection with the commemorative issue throughout the process.

"There was some struggle reading his handwriting. He worked incredibly hard. Some of his emails were sent at two in the morning. He's an incredibly good writer," Mr Hedges revealed.

"We get a massive insight into him. He reveals a lot about his cares, interests and his frustrations... His fears for farming stand out very clear."

Mr Hedges added: "This essay reveals his unconditional passion for the British countryside and demonstrates a deep knowledge built up over many years."

It is the first time Charles has edited a national publication, although he has written for newspapers and magazines in the past. He chose the November 13 issue to coincide with his 65th birthday on November 14.