A PRESTON-based charity rolled out the red carpet to welcome Princess Alexandra to the town last week.

The relaxed royal officially opened the new Red Cross Headquarters on Pittman Way, Fulwood, after meeting dozens of hard-working volunteers, who give up much of their time to make sure the charity's services are always available.

Dressed in mint green two-piece, HRH arrived at the centre, which actually opened last July, to be greeted by a number of the county's dignatories, including the Mayor and Mayoress of Preston and chief constable Pauline Clare.

HRH, who was deputising for Her Majesty the Queen who was unable to attend, was given a tour of the new building and witnessed demonstrations of several of the services offered by the charity.

HRH - the deputy president of the British Red Cross Society - was also shown the new Fire Victim Support Unit, which is due to take to the road in September and will provide assistance to people who have lost their homes in a fire.

Before unveiling a plaque to mark her visit, HRH spent more than 15 minutes mingling with the volunteers who had packed a marquee on the charity's car park to welcome her. She was evidently very moved by the lengths the volunteers go to working for the charity.

She said: "I am very pleased you asked me here today. I wish you all the best in the future."

During her hour-long visit, HRH met 17-year-old Michelle Wild, youth member of the year, who presented the royal with a posy. Michelle, from Ingol, said: "The Princess asked me what I did in the group and how long I have been involved." Coun Geoff Swarbrick, Preston's Mayor said: "She has a knack of making people feel at ease."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.