Duke of Edinburgh praises mental health charity for work with veterans on visit to Telford
The Duke of Edinburgh praised a mental health charity for its work with veterans during a visit to Shropshire.
Prince Edward attended two engagements in Telford on Wednesday afternoon – first a visit to the Army Reserve Centre, before joining a tea party at Dawley Town Hall.
Both events were military-themed, with the Duke meeting cadets at the reserve centre, before meeting agencies and groups which support veterans, gathered together by Telford & Wrekin Council at the town hall, where they also marked the building's 150th birthday.
Joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire, Anna Turner, the Duke talked at length with young people, veterans, and representatives of charities which support them.
The relaxed and light-hearted Duke shared his sense of humour during his visit, joking on arrival into a packed but silent town hall that he had "killed the party".
Unveiling a plaque to mark the hall's anniversary The Duke was introduced by the leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, Councillor Shaun Davies, who shared the history of the hall – and how when it was not allowed to serve alcohol, locals set up a pub nearby.
Addressing the guests the Duke said: "First of all it was really good to meet you all and thank you for your collective service you have done for this country, it is very, very much appreciated. And thank you to Mind and everyone else who organises these get-togethers for you.
"I am told this is not your typical day for getting together so I apologise if I have completely and totally confused your entire week.
"Anyway I have been asked to unveil this particular plaque, I am guessing a few of you can probably remember when the building opened - forgive me, you remember when the pub opened!"
To a background of laughter the Duke promised to try and make the unveiling "as slick as possible," adding: "I want you to know this has taken years of practice."
During his visit he met representatives from Telford Mind, a mental health charity that supports veterans, and the people who use its services.
He also took time to sit and chat with other groups such as Models for Heroes, and the All Sports Coaches Coaching Academy.
