THE EARL OF WESSEX VISITS ANCHOR RETIREMENT HOUSING SCHEME

Tenants at Whitton's Mill, an Anchor Retirement Housing scheme in Gainsborough, were treated to a royal visit when The Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward, took time out from his family duties to enjoy a whistle-stop tour of Lincolnshire.

Tenant's extended a warm welcome to His Royal Highness, to officially open, what is hailed by many as one of the town's brightest buildings, and the flagship to the Trent riverside regeneration.

Anchor developed and renovated the seven-story former animal feed mill for older people in Gainsborough in conjunction with the local authority. The scheme houses 45 flats, a lounge/café, IT centre, hairdressers and gym.

One of the tenants he was introduced to was former Whitton's Mill employee, Vera Hall aged 71. She worked at the former mill nearly 60 years ago when she was 14. Mrs Hall and her husband Percy were the first tenants to move into the development and were chosen to show HRH their sixth floor flat.

We are all very excited by the start of work, and are very much looking forward to moving into our new home it makes us feel young again

Judith Crowther, Director of Housing Services, took the Prince onto the balcony to view the spectacular river frontage and surrounding area before Meryl Talbot, the scheme manager showed him around the rest of the scheme.

"I am sure I can speak on behalf of the tenants when I say that we are delighted to have had the opportunity to show him the accommodation and facilities in this wonderful building." said Meryl.

Prince Edward unveiled a plaque to mark the official opening of the scheme and commented,

"it's fantastic and I hope it is very much appreciated by all those who live here."

Whitton's Mill tenant, Mrs Joyce Darley presented HRH with a beautiful teddy for his baby daughter, Louise, before Mrs Ethel Bartle invited him to join them for some light refreshment. He took tea, chatted informally with many of the tenants and signed the Visitor's Book before he left.