Chester’s Royal Visit

His Royal Highness Prince Edward, The Earl of Wessex visited Chester this morning (14 October), to thank local shops and charities who worked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Arriving in Northgate Street His Royal Highness started the visit at the Cheese Shop, moving on to Francis Thomas greengrocers and Sweet Elements Patisserie.

The Earl of Wessex, hosted by Cheshire’s Lord-Lieutenant, Lady Redmond met with Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council and Graham Pink, the Council’s Director for Commercial Management and Delivery to see the progress being made with the Northgate development and new market.

His Royal Highness was introduced to Ian Hall and Geoff Hughes from Chester Indoor Market, two of the many traders who worked throughout the pandemic as essential retailers. The Share Shop on Northgate Street was the next visit before being welcomed to Chester Town Hall by The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Martyn Delaney.

A hundred invited guests from thirty Cheshire charities supporting mental health, food banks, and poverty who all helped communities throughout the pandemic met The Earl at a gathering in the Town Hall.

Councillor Gittins said: “It was a great honour for the city to welcome His Royal Highness for this visit which allowed him the opportunity to walk through the city and meet with local businesses and charities who have worked hard through the pandemic to support our communities.

“I would like to thank The Earl of Wessex for his kind words to the charity workers, volunteers, retailers and front-line Council staff who have all supported residents through this really difficult time for our borough and the country as a whole.”

The Earl of Wessex signed the visitor book in Chester Town Hall accompanied by The Lord Mayor of Chester before leaving the city.

Pictured - The Earl of Wessex met by The Lord Mayor of Chester.