LOCAL dignitaries will welcome HRH The Princess Royal to Prestwich tomorrow (Tues Jan 9).

She will call into the Salford Mental Health Services Citizens' Advice Bureau, which is based at Prestwich Hospital in Bury New Road.

As patron of the National Association of Citizens' Advice Bureaux, The Princess Royal will meet the staff and clients and learn more about the type of work carried out there.

Bureau manager Annette Gaskell said: "I think the Princess Royal will recognise that we are quite a unique facility. We are the only one in the North West that specialises in mental health issues."

The CAB, funded by the Mental Health Services of Salford Trust, provides advice and assistance particularly relating to mental health patients.

During her visit, she will meet the Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Coun Bill and Mrs Joyce Johnson and Bury South MP Ivan Lewis. She will receive a posy of flowers on her arrival, at noon, from Annette's 10-year-old daughter, Helena.

Annette said: "Helena is really excited about it." She's even got new clothes for the occasion. All the staff are looking forward to her visit, although some are a bit nervous," added Annette.

"It's been very hectic, trying to organise things."

As part of her visit to Greater Manchester, the Princess Royal will officially open the extension of the Metrolink system to Eccles via Salford Quays, as well as stopping off in Stockport and Failsworth.