Princess Alexandra returns to Ellesmere 30 years on from last visit
Princess Alexandra returned to a canal holiday charity to launched its new narrowboat - exactly 30 years after her first visit.
In July 1987 the Princess was at the Lyneal Trust near Ellesmere to launch the Shropshire Lass. This year she launched a state-of-the-art day trip boat, the Shropshire Lady.
She went on board the purpose built narrowboat designed for those with disabilities to enjoy the canal, before unveiling a plaque and chatting to some of those who have enjoyed holidays with the Lyneal Trust.
The Princess also met volunteers who work for the charity and representatives of organisations, such as the Walker Trust and Lady Forester Trust, who have given grants to the Shropshire Lady.
She took time out to wave to the well wishers who had lined up on the other side of the Llangollen Canal, including brownies and guides, to catch a glimpse of her.
Lyneal Trust chairman, Mr Chris Symes, the day was important not only to launch the boat but to say thank you to the 40 volunteers who help to run the charity and to those who have given grants for the Shropshire Lady.
One of the holidaymakers, Jon Studd, said the trip boat was a wonderful addition to the trust.
"I had a wonderful holiday with my wife and friends on one of the holiday boats. It was designed so that people in wheelchairs can do everything on board, including steering it."
One of the founders of the chairman was Sir Algernon Heber-Percy who is also Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire.
"It was a particular joy to welcome back Princess Alexandra who launched our first boat 30 years ago," he said.
"This trust gives pleasure to many people and brings visitors to Shropshire."
Jo Hartley volunteers both on the boat and on shore.
"It is very relaxing on the water and the location is idyllic," she said.
Volunteer, Frank Riley, said he would like more people to make use of the narrowboats and cottages at the trust's headquarters at Lyneal.
"I used to bring disabled children from Liverpool on holidays here, yet many people in Shropshire do not know the trust exists."
Lily Roberts, seven, from Telford, whose mother, Wendy, is a trustee, presented a bouquet to Princess Alexandra and said it had been exciting meeting a Princess.
