Charles and Macron were to enjoy Michelin-starred Versailles banquet before ... trends now

Luxuries prepared for King Charles that infuriated French anti-government protesters included his 'favourite vintage cheese' and bottles of wine 'worth hundreds' before his state visit was cancelled, it emerged today.

30-month-old Comté and accompanying Claret were all part of a Michelin-starred banquet being prepared in the Palace of Versailles as part of the state visit.

It was dramatically cancelled on Friday after President Emmanuel Macron admitted he could not guarantee security for Charles and Camilla. 

There has been more than a week of rioting across France after Mr Macron raised the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a parliamentary vote.

It led to claims that the French president was more interested in living the high life with fellow heads of state than worrying about his struggling constituents.

Now, details of the banquet which was set to take place in the spectacular Hall of Mirrors at Versailles - once the home of French kings and queens - have been leaked.

'No expense was being spared - Macron and Charles were going to dine like old world monarchs,' said a source who was involved in preparations for the visit which was due to start on Sunday.

Michelin chefs Anne-Sophie Pic and Yannick Alléno were going to start the feast with green asparagus.

The main course was Bresse chicken with truffles, followed by cheeses including 'a thirty-month-old Comté, which we were told is the King's favourite,' said the source.

It was to be accompanied by 'rhubarb water jelly' prepared by 'master cheesemakers,' Anthony, said the source.

The dessert - a tarte tatin with caramel and dried fruit - was to be made by pastry chef Pierre Hermé.

Wine, including Claret to go with the cheese, would come from the Élysée Palace cellar, where 'routine bottles cost hundreds,' the source added.