A VILLAGE business received the royal seal of approval as it was visited by the Princess Royal.

Princess Anne visited Chappel to take a tour of Direct Meats, which last year won the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade 2020.

The business, which is based at Knights Farm off Swan Street, sells and supplies restaurants around the world.

It was founded in 1995, now trades with about 20 countries, including Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Sweden and Hong Kong.

The princess arrived in a helicopter which was spotted landing in the village.

Direct Meats confirmed the Princess Royal came to visit as a result of their achievement.

The royal is said to have enjoyed her tour of the farm, staying longer than originally planned.

It is believed she also unveiled a new plaque to celebrate the company’s achievement.

Following her visit, the Princess Royal flew to Westcliff where she went to Westcliff High School for Girls to open its new east wing building.