Princess Anne was in County Fermanagh on Thursday and met military veterans, healthcare workers and young cadets on her 65th official visit to Northern Ireland.
The Princess Royal, who has made three visits to Northern Ireland this year, dedicated the day to supporting former service personnel while recognizing communities dedicated to preserving the region’s history and heritage.
One of the key stops on his itinerary was the Brooke House Health and Wellness Center near Fivemiletown, where he met veterans and emergency services personnel who benefit from the center’s rehabilitation programs.
The facility offers support to serving and retired members of the armed forces, as well as police, corrections and emergency services workers, with a strong focus on mental health and recovery.
During a tour led by chief executive Joan Clements, the Princess spoke to staff, volunteers and veterans about the centre’s work.
She also visited their therapeutic gardens, where participants grow fruits, vegetables and flowers as part of a horticultural therapy program designed to improve well-being and rebuild confidence after trauma.
Head gardener Dougal Dorman said the Princess showed genuine interest in the project, taking an interest in gardening and asking questions about seasonal crops and how the gardens contribute to recovery.
Later that day he traveled to Irvinestown where he visited Derryvullen North Parish Church and Sacred Heart Church, greeting local residents and parish representatives before taking part in commemorative engagements relating to the 85th anniversary of the Royal Air Force Cadets.
In her role as chair of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the Princess stopped to pay her respects at the graves of RAF personnel buried in both cemeteries.
