The Earl of Wessex arrived in Braintree to put the royal seal of approval on celebrations at a newly refurbished centre for physically handicapped adults.

Prince Edward unveiled a plaque to officially mark the opening of the Tabor Centre's new home at the town's Weavers Park yesterday afternoon.

Prince Edward meets Braintree residents

The centre was originally based in the park back in 1990, but since then has moved to various other temporary homes.

However, thanks to a grant of £453,652 from the National Lottery Community Fund the original accommodation has been refurbished with two new wings built, and will now be the centre's permanent home.

Prince Edward arrived by car and was then taken on a guided tour of the centre. And he took time to sit and talk with members.

Marina Lee, of Trinity Court, Halstead, who has been a member of the centre since 1994, said: "I thought he was absolutely smashing and much better looking than he is on TV."

Published Thursday, May 29, 2003

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