The Princess Royal visits the North West

The Princess Royal arrived into the City of Derry airport on the 2nd of October to carry on the out a full day of visits. Despite being delayed by fog in England she carried out all the planned engagements with the help of the local PSNI security and travel teams.

After visiting the Seige Museum in the City she traveled to Seating Matters, a family owned manufacturing business at Glack near Limavady. She was welcomed there by Dr Bill McGinnis CBE DL on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant Mrs Alison Millar. Mrs Martina Tierney, one of the founders of Seating Matters, her family and the staff warmly greeted The Princess Royal, many of whom she chatted to. The production process of the clinical therapeutic seating was explained to her as she toured the factory as was the global reach of this amazing family firm set in the foothills of the Sperrins.

Then in of Limavady, at the former Roe Valley hospital, Princess Anne visited the Limavady Community Development Initiative(LCDI). Formed in the 1980s by some wonderful local men and women to address poverty in the area. In doing so they effectively rescued the old building and have delivered – and are delivering – projects that are superbly tailored for local need. The Princess learned about the Social Supermarket for food, clothing, baby needs, and toys. She met the staff, volunteers, board directors and service users who explained the work in the Advice Centre, Recycling project, Adult Day Centre, Garden, Canteen and met Ambulance staff who work out of the Old Courtyard. She also heard how LCDI kept delivering food and meals and other support, both practical and by way of Advice, during the Covid Emergency. A plaque commemorating the visit was unveiled by Her Royal Highness and she was presented with a framed photograph of Downhill beach, the Mussenden Temple and tunnel which was taken by staff and then prepared for her in the Adult Day Centre.

The visit was deemed a great success for all involved.