Brightlingsea turned out in force to catch a glimpse of Princess Anne as she visited the town’s museum on Wednesday (December 11).
The Princess Royal spent nearly an hour in the building, meeting nearly 50 museum volunteers and representatives from a wide range of local organisations and civic bodies. Her visit followed an invite from the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Jennifer Tolhurst, who was present when the Brightlingsea Museum opened in its current Station Road home in 2020.
After arriving by helicopter –landing on the Strangers Corner playing field – the Princess was driven the short distance to the museum to be greeted by crowds of wellwishers, many of whom stood in the cold for over 90 minutes to see her leave as well.
“What an honour for the museum and Brightlingsea,” said museum chairman Nick Skinner. “It’s important for all the volunteers that all the hard work and dedication that they have put in is recognised.”
Guests inside the museum reported that the Princess – who is president of the Royal Yachting Association – was particularly interested in the museum’s nautical exhibits and the town’s maritime history.
“It was a wonderful day, she was very easy to talk to,” said musem curator Margaret Stone. “She knew a lot about the town and she said something completely different to everyone.”
Before leaving, the Princess unveiled a plaque marking her visit, engraved with a stylised sail and outline of Bateman’s Tower. Standing outside the museu, Mrs Stone told her: ” I hope you gained some understanding of how the people of Brightlingsea have contributed to the vibrant town we have today.”
As wwell as visiting the museum, the Princess visited the Military Intelligence Battalion at Mourlon Barracks in Colchester and a care home in Harlow run by the Shaftesbury charity, of which she is patron.
