HARTLEBURY welcomed a royal visitor to the area as Princess Anne attended a young carer’s conference in the village.

Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal attended the YSS Worcestershire Young Carer’s conference on Monday (April 20) in her role as patron of the YSS. She gave a keynote speech at the conference, which took place at Hartlebury-based communications agency drp, and was greeted by cheering, flag-waving pupils from Hartlebury C of E Primary School on her arrival.

It was Princess Anne’s second visit to the area within a week, following her visit to Severn Valley Railway to celebrate their 50th anniversary on Monday, April 13.

Mark Marshall, a 15 year old young carer who has looked after his mother since the passing of his father eight years ago, talked about the YSS conference and how the charity has helped and supported him.

He said: “It was an honour to meet Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal today.

“She was extremely pleasant and really down to earth. It’s been such good fun organising the conference, and helping to promote the work YSS and the volunteers do for us carers.”

Lady Susanna McFarlane, chair of YSS trustees, said: “The Princess Royal has been our patron since 2008 so for more than seven years.

“She has a keen interest in YSS and her attention to detail and in depth knowledge is paramount to the success we have gained through her support and attendance at our conference today.

“At every event she has attended, her presence has generated significant publicity in the local media, increased out profile and there for awareness of the issues we are trying to address. It opens so many doors to us and the young carers are overjoyed to have had her at this event that they themselves have executed so beautifully.”