Duchess visit to craft centre 'massive'

The co-founder of a crafts centre has said a visit from the Duchess of Edinburgh has been "massive" recognition for the work it does.

Crowsmill Craft Centre near Bridgnorth in Shropshire, helps children and adults with disabilities, and people over the age of 18 who are out of work.

Dickon Pitt, one of the men who set up the project, which has been operating for 13 years, said his team was "really excited" by the visit.

Her Royal Highness was also due to visit The Albrighton Trust in Albrighton and Willowdene Farm in Chorley while in the county.

Pitt said it had been "quite a challenge" getting the craft centre ready for their guest, adding the team had been working to "generally tidy up around the place because as a working crafts centre we've got all sorts going on".

He said the aim of the craft centre was to teach useful skills in a "safe environment where everyone is relaxed and stress free".

The crafts include woodworking, blacksmithing, cooking, jewellery-making and gardening.

Pitt said the last 13 years had been a "long journey" and everyone was pleased to see it recognised.

Elsewhere, the Duchess was due to visit a sensory garden and woodcraft project at the Albrighton Trust and meet anglers there.

She was also due to tour the craft and well-being centre at Willowdene Farm, as well as the carpentry centre, classroom, farm facilities and residential area.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire Mrs Anna Turner said it was "a wonderful opportunity for Her Royal Highness to see some of the fabulous work being done in Shropshire with amazing support of local communities and volunteers."

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