Princess Anne visits centre she opened 30 years ago

The Princess Royal has made a visit to Merseyside to mark the 30th anniversary of a carers centre.

Princess Anne opened Sefton Carers Centre in Waterloo in 1994, and returned earlier to join the milestone celebrations.

The centre provides support to those looking after a loved one or a friend.

One carer praised Princess Anne for showing "genuine care" during her visit, adding that she "didn't miss anyone out".

Kellie Wright said: "I was a bag of nerves and the minute she shook my hand she was asking questions.

"She went around the room and she spoke to every carer directly.

"We felt like she really wanted to be here and that she really genuinely cared about what we were talking about."

Princess Anne is the The President of the Carers Trust, created in 2012 when The Princess Royal Trust for Carers and Crossroads Care charities merged.

She engaged with partners, carers, volunteers, trustees and staff, gaining insights into the services at the centre on South Road.

Sue, a carer for her mother, said the visit was something "she will never forget".

She said: "As carers we put aside any thoughts of recognition or accolades, but to hear how myself and other carers are appreciated was truly humbling.

"Her Royal Highness listened to each of us, hearing how unique each of our journeys have been and how what we do does really make a difference to the lives of our loved ones.

"Her graciousness and acknowledgement of the work we do was truly inspiring."

The visit not only celebrated the centre’s past and present commitments, but also inspired renewed dedication of supporting carers moving forward, a Sefton Carers Centre spokesman said.

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