Kent was subject to another visit from the Royal Family just a few days after Kate Middleton came to the county.
Princess Anne attended HMP Swaleside in Eastchurch, on Sheppey, as a patron of The Butler Trust.
The Princess Royal visited Sheppey and Edenbridge this week. Picture: Vikki Lince
The Trust is an independent charity which works to promote excellence in UK prisons, probation, and youth justice by recognising and celebrating outstanding practice, and supporting the development of good practice through awards, training, and resources.
The Princess Royal has been its patron since it launched in 1985 and opened HMP Swaleside in 1988.
Her Royal Highness is involved in its Hidden Heroes campaign, which shines a light on the dedicated and highly skilled men and women who work in the criminal justice system.
The Trust says she makes around six prison visits per year as patron for the charity to “recognise and pay tribute to the men and women who do such important and challenging work, and to show them that while they may be hidden from public view, they are not forgotten”.
During her visit to the county yesterday, she also opened a Millbrook affordable housing development in Edenbridge.
Princess Anne visited HMP Swaleside in Eastchurch as a patron of The Butler Trust. Picture: Chris Davey.
The Princess Royal toured the new homes and met with residents, stakeholders, and community members.
The £2.44 million scheme, delivered by Sevenoaks District Council and Chiddingstone Parish Council, includes eight homes for rent. They have all been allocated to households with local connections.
The Princess Royal unveiled a commemorative plaque and received a posy from two-year-old Hazel Joyce.
Chief executive of English Rural, Martin Collett, said: “It is an honour to welcome our patron HRH The Princess Royal to officially open our Millbrook development.
“This development is a testament to what can be achieved when communities, councils, and housing associations work together.
Princess Kate also visited Kent last week
“These homes will allow local people to remain in the area they know and love, strengthening the fabric of rural life in Kent.”
In July, King Charles paid his first official visit to Kent since ascending the throne.
His Majesty visited Walmer and Deal on Thursday, and met with lifeboat crews as well as community champions and representatives of the ancient Cinque Ports.
The Princess of Wales also paid a visit to the county last week.
Catherine was given a tour of family-run textiles business Marina Mill in Cuxton on Thursday (September 11).