by Gerry Warren

gwarren@thekmgroup.co.uk

The Earl and Countess of Wessex visited Chaucer Technology School on Tuesday to help celebrate students’ efforts and achievements in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme.

They were greeted at the school by the Lord Lieutenant of Kent Viscount De L’Isle MBE and headteacher Simon Murphy.

Prince Edward has taken over the role as the ambassador for the awards’ scheme from his father and he and his wife spent nearly an hour chatting to teenagers and staff.

They included members of a group of 18 pupils who went to work in Kenya last summer as part of a Camps International project.

They spent a month working with local African communities to build a new school classroom and several houses, and digging a half mile trench to bring fresh water into a village.

The Royal couple also spoke to representatives from the county council’s youth services and expedition leaders from MENCAP who also have a team of youngsters working towards a DoE award.

Head teacher Simon Murphy said: “I believe it was the school’s first Royal visit but I hope it won’t be the last.

“The Earl and Countess really put the students at ease.”

The royal couple made the visit prior to attending the gala opening night performance at the new Marlowe Theatre.

For full story and pictures see this weeks Kentish Gazette.