People in Godmersham were greeted by royalty today as HRH The Princess Royal visited an affordable housing complex in the village.

The visit was designed to highlight the importance of rural affordable housing and the huge difference it can make to residents' lives.

Sir Peter Dixon, leader of the English Rural Housing Association, said: "The eight homes in Sunley Gardens provide much needed affordable housing for local people. It has made a huge difference; villages are so appealing so the house prices remain high. Affordable housing makes it possible for people to buy homes."

Princess Anne, planted a fruit tree to commemorate her visit and accepted a flower posey from three-year-old Tiffany Hopper, who lives in Sunley Gardens with her mum Gemma Millen.

The eight homes at Sunley Gardens were built in 2011 and are a result of a partnership between English Rural Housing Association, Godmersham Parish Council and Ashford Borough Council and are funded by the National Affordable Housing Programme.

Cllr Bob Davidson, the Mayor of Ashford, said: "It was so great for Her Royal Highness to come down and support this small complex. For me, it has been a real honour."