Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh has paid a visit to Rochester Cathedral.

The royal, who is a patron of cathedral’s trust, spent time on Tuesday afternoon catching up with staff.

An increased police presence was noticeable in the town as she departed at around 6 pm.

Over the years, the countess has made several appearances at the cathedral where she receives a warm welcome.

Born in Brenchley, near Tonbridge, Sophie Helen Rhys-Jones went to Kent College at Pembury and West Kent College, which has sites at Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells.

She is married to the late Queen’s youngest son, Edward and has a reputation as being one of the busiest members of the Royal Family attending functions at home and abroad.

In April, she paid a visit to the headquarters of the Kent Refugee Action Network in Simmons Road, Canterbury in what was her first public engagement in the county since she was given her new title.

During her visit the duchess also visited the Kent & Medway Medical School, based in the University of Kent and arrived by helicopter in the school field of Kent College Canterbury, an independent school.

She also paid a visit to Brockhill Performing Arts College, in Hythe and was pictured chatting to staff and pupils as she presented them with a LEAF Education Demonstration school award.