The sun shone as Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall, dropped into Thiepval Barracks Lisburn to pay a visit to the 2nd Battalion, The Rifles (2 Rifles).
After being greeted by a fanfare from buglers from across the Rifles regiment, The Duchess was introduced to the soldiers of ‘A’ Company as they took a break from PT. She was accompanied on her visit by the Lord Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell, the Officers and the Commanding Officer of 2 Rifles, Lieutenant Colonel Will Wells.
She enjoyed a nice ‘cuppa’ and a chat with a few of the partners and children of the soldiers before unveiling a plaque at the Rifles ‘welfare garden’. The garden was started during lockdown by Sarah Hulyer, whose partner is the unit's Operations Officer.
Sarah joined The Duchess for a spot of flower arranging and was impressed by the Duchess's skills. Speaking after the visit, she said, "You can tell that The Duchess has an eye for detail and colour. She very quickly put together a very beautiful arrangement."
The Commanding Officer of 2 Rifles, Lieutenant Colonel Will Wells, said, "we were honoured to host Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall, our new Colonel-in-Chief. We are very grateful for her ongoing support".