CROYDON will play host to a Royal visitor on Friday.
HRH The Princess Royal is coming to the town centre to help the Whitgift Foundation commemorate 400 years of its Founder's Day Service at Croydon Minster.
The service gives thanks to the charity's founder, Archbishop John Whitgift, whose mission to provide education for the young and care for the elderly has supported thousands in Croydon since the first foundation stones were laid on March 22, 1596, at the Hospital of the Holy Trinity - now known as the Whitgift Almshouses.
On arrival, The Princess will watch the Corps of Drums from Whitgift School before joining Year 7 pupils from Whitgift, Trinity and Old Palace Schools and residents of the Foundation's care homes for a special service conducted by Canon Colin Boswell, the Vicar of Croydon.
Following the service, Her Royal Highness will tour Old Palace of John Whitgift School and meet staff, pupils, and governors before joining guests at a special lunch in Old Palace's medieval Banqueting Hall.
Martin Corney, chief executive of The Whitgift Foundation, said: "We are delighted and honoured that HRH The Princess Royal, will be attending the 400th Founder's Day Service at Croydon Minster."
