On Monday 16 May 2011, staff and residents at BEN's Town Thorns Care Centre were delighted to welcome BEN's Patron, HRH Princess Alexandra.

The Princess was greeted by local dignitaries and senior BEN staff and enjoyed a brief tour of part of the care centre before sitting down to a cream tea with the residents.

Among those who were introduced to Princess Alexandra were 100 year old Lilian Haylock, a number of BEN's dedicated care staff, staff from the award winning kitchen at Town Thorns and 103 year old Effie Hancock, who had previously met the Princess when she opened Town Thorns 20 years ago. Mrs Hancock presented the Princess with a posy of flowers and a cake, baked specially by Trainee Chef Lesley Ireland.

Helen Owen, Matron of Town Thorns, said;
"The excitement and joy among the residents both before and after the royal visit has been incredible to behold. The Princess took time to talk with each resident in turn and this meant a lot to all involved. We were thrilled to see her return after twenty years and to get such positive feedback on our care at Town Thorns from BEN's Patron."

You can view a slideshow of images below.