Princess Anne Visits Trawden

As midday approached on April 10th, umbrellas dotted the scene in Trawden village as eager onlookers awaited the arrival of HRH Princess Anne amidst the drizzle. Her Royal Highness had begun her day at the Helmshore Mills Textile Museum in Rossendale before making her way to Trawden.

Her purpose? To delve into the unique story of Trawden, the only village in the UK where the community owns its centre, shop, library, and pub. Leading her through this remarkable community was Steve Wilcock, the driving force behind the village’s revival.

Steve’s efforts had earned him the prestigious British Empire Medal, bestowed upon him in a grand ceremony at Lancaster Castle by the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire. It was during this event that the idea of Princess Anne’s visit took shape.

Recalling the invitation, Steve shared, “The Lord-Lieutenant mentioned Trawden to me, hinting at a VIP visit. It wasn’t until later that we discovered it was Princess Anne.”

Preparations for the royal visit were extensive. “I thought the phone would never stop ringing the night before her visit,” Steve laughs. “Because there were so many people involved in it. It was quite nerve-wracking.”

Upon her arrival, Princess Anne wisely sought shelter at the Trawden Arms. She enjoyed a light lunch prepared by Jackie & Francesca’s Old Rock Café before engaging with the committee responsible for the community’s pub purchase and its new tenants.

Accompanied by Steve, she then ventured into the community library and shop, where eager locals awaited her arrival.

The visit continued at the community centre, bustling with various local groups and associations, including the Parish Council, Garden Festival organisers, and youth groups like the Brownies and Scouts. Even the elderly members of the friendship group, some in their nineties, had the opportunity to interact with her.

Reflecting on the experience, Steve beamed, “It all went smoothly. Princess Anne was approachable, engaging everyone with her conversation.” She even extended her stay by half an hour, showing genuine interest in every aspect of the community before bidding farewell and escaping the rain in her Range Rover.

ColneLife May/June 24