Mill Hill residents' joy at Prince William visit

10:37am Friday 2nd May 2008

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RESIDENTS in Mill Hill have told of their joy that Prince William is to visit their community.

The Lancashire Telegraph announced on Wednesday that St Aidan's Primary School, Mill Hill, Blackburn, has been selected for the Royal visit The school is involved in the Football Association's Skills Programme and Prince William will visit in his capacity as president of the Football Association to check on pupils' soccer skills.

Tracey Collins, 38, a St Aiden's Primary School governor, of Parklands Way, Blackburn, said: "It is very good publicity for the school.

"I know the teachers and the children are excited about the visit.

Margaret Wogden, 64, from Mill Hill, said: "My grandson is at the school and he got a letter to say he had been chosen to play with Prince William.

"He will be playing with the football team and I think the netball team is playing as well.

"I think his visit is marvellous for the children and I think the council should invest some money into the area for older people as well as the younger ones."

Claire Bithell, 39, of Stephen Street, Blackburn, said: "There is nothing wrong with him coming. It's fine. He is a good role model for the children."

Kathleen Proctor, 81, from Mill Hill, said: "I think it is good, because usually when we ask for things ,such as funding or big events, they are given to other areas like Shadsworth."

Cheryl Phillips, 30, of Kings Bridge Street, said: "I think it is great for the school. It is a good boost for the children and the staff.

"It would be nice if the government also spent money in the area whether someone special was coming or not."

Cath Pickup, 32, from Wilpshire, said: "I grew up in this area and it's a good thing he is coming." The Prince will make the visit next Friday, at an undisclosed time. Blackburn with Darwen Council said that no special arrangements were being made for the Prince's visit.

A spokesperson said: "The visit is in relation to the school and its work with the FA.

"We aren't carrying out any work in the surrounding area ahead of the visit.

"Anything that is happening is just routine maintenance work."