It was a very special day for residents and their families, as well as staff, at the Martha Trust near Deal on Thursday, December 10, when the Princess Royal called in to see them.

The visit came 10 years after Princess Anne opened Frances House and gave her the chance to see some of the new facilities that had been provided there, as well as a new extension which has enabled three more residents to move in.

The trust provides life-long residential and respite care for people with profound physical and multiple learning disabilities.

The Princess Royal arrived by helicopter, landing at Sandwich and then being taken by car the short journey to the home at Hacklinge, between Deal and Sandwich.

Chief executive Graham Simmons said the visit went "really well" with the royal visitor talking to every resident and their families.

"She was so warm and personable, and spent time talking to everyone," he said.

"She was very interested to meet the residents and hear from their families first hand about what goes on here. She asked lots of questions.

"The Princess Royal said she was pleased to hear from the families the progress that their sons and daughters are making, and the opportunities they have to live as normal a life as possible."

Funding for Frances House and the new extension was provided by the Development Trust of which the Princess is patron. Chief Executive Robin Carter was among those introduced to the Princess Royal at the home.

"We have a long-standing relationship with Martha Trust and have supported them for many years," he said.

Frances House accommodates eight people and Martha House 12. There is also one place for respite care, which benefits 10 people a year, and day-care facilities for five people.

Another 12 people live at Mary House in Hastings.

All the residents are young adults, mostly in their early 20s.