Princess Anne visited one of Colchester’s oldest companies to celebrate its 175th year of trading.

The Princess Royal spent about an hour speaking to staff at Kent Blaxill and was shown around the various areas of the glass and building centre.

She met about 30 members of staff, including five who had served between 25 and 43 years at the Layer Road company, and long standing customers of the company.

Simon Blaxill, managing director of the company, said: “We were truly honoured to have a visit from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal “There was an air of nervousness but excitement beforehand.

“She put people really at ease and came across as a very interesting person and knowledgable."