ROYAL protocol will be keeping Princess Anne tight-lipped when she visits Runshaw College next week.

For the Princess Royal, who will unveil the official plaque in the Eskdale building on Thursday, may decide that silence is golden.

Runshaw officials have been told not to expect a speech from Her Royal Highness, as royals are permitted to decide for themselves whether it's good to talk during public visits.

But college chiefs are prepared for a speechless stopover. Runshaw spokesman Jim Smith said: "The Princess Royal will be at the college for about an hour, so she will only have time to see the ground floor, which includes drama, music and media studies.

"An official unveiling of the plaque will then take place. It's a great day for Runshaw, but we have been told not to expect a speech."

The whole event is being prepared with military precision. Vending machines, litter bins and bike sheds have been removed from the £4 million Eskdale building, on instructions from local police. Students have also been told to park their cars away from college at nearby Worden Park.

Her schedule has been prepared by the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth, and even includes five minutes for her to visit the ladies toilets!

Mr Smith added: "Some of our media students will film her arrival, rush into college and edit the footage so HRH can see her arrival on screen before she leaves."

A spokesman for the Central Office of Information said: "No speech has been planned because HRH will be at the end of a very busy day."

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