PHOTO: Lloyd Almond
On Wednesday 15th October, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited four locations across Devon. As President of the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT), she firstly visited British Wool’s South Molton depot to mark their 75th anniversary, celebrating three-quarters of a century championing UK sheep farmers and promoting the value of British wool.
The company which collects, grades, promotes and markets British wool on behalf of sheep farmers from across the UK. Its mission is to increase sustainable demand for British wool in order to maximise returns for members.
Upon arrival, she was greeted by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, David Fursdon, who introduced Princess Anne to the Chair of Devon County Council, Cllr Caroline Leaver, the Chair of North Devon District Council, Cllr Helen Walker, and the Vice Chair of North Devon District Council, Cllr David Worden.
During the visit, The Princess Royal toured the depot’s grading facilities, met with local farmers, staff, and innovators from across the region, and learned more about how the company are driving forward the use of natural, traceable fibres in fashion, furnishings, and beyond. To commemorate the occasion, Her Royal Highness unveiled a special plaque at the South Molton site, officially marking 75 years of British Wool. The Princess Royal was also presented with a handcrafted shepherd’s crook by Jim Robertson, Chairman, as a symbol of the organisation’s heritage and enduring connection to the UK’s farming community.
PHOTO: LandWorks
Her Royal Highness then went on to visit LandWorks, a resettlement charity that provide a supported route back into employment and the community for people in prison or at risk of going to prison, based in Dartington.
The charity’s programme involves intensive placements lasting 6-9 months on average that combine real work-experience and training alongside comprehensive practical support to aid resettlement and reduce the risk of reoffending. After placements end, the charity provides a range of on-going support.
His Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant of Devon, Commodore Jake Moores OBE DL, greeted her upon arrival and introduced her to the High Sheriff of Devon, Mrs Caroline Harlow, and the Chair of South Hams District Council, Cllr Bernard Taylor.
During the visit The Princess Royal met with trustees, team members, partners and supporters. The visit also included a detailed overview of LandWorks’ facilities and programmes, highlighting the range of skills participants develop across the wood workshop, market garden and pottery. Her Royal Highness was also invited to unveil a plaque, handmade by participants in the onsite pottery, to commemorate the visit.
PHOTO: WetWheels Foundation
As Patron of the Foundation, Her Royal Highness then went on to visit WetWheels in Torbay, to mark a major milestone for inclusive boating in the UK. Their aim is to ensure everyone can access the water with a safe, barrier-free, enriching experience. They offer a unique opportunity for disabled and disadvantaged people of all ages, including those with multiple, profound and complex impairments, to access the water.
Founded by disabled yachtsman Geoff Holt MBE, the Wetwheels Foundation already operates eight specially adapted powerboats across the UK. Unlike traditional boat trips, every Wetwheels experience is fully interactive. Participants are not simply passengers, but active crew – taking the helm, feeling the power of the sea, and sharing unforgettable moments alongside friends, families and carers. The model not only improves physical and mental wellbeing but also builds confidence, independence, and a lasting connection to the ocean.
The Princess Royal was greeted by Rear Admiral Chris Snow CBE DL, His Majesty’s Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, who introduced the Princess to the Mayor of Torbay, Cllr Barbara Lewis and the Chief Executive of Torbay Council, Mrs Anne-Marie Bond.
PHOTO: Sarah Hall Photography
Her Royal Highness concluded her visit at Luminous Show Technology in Exeter, demonstrating support for British innovation and celebrating the creativity and expertise of UK engineers and technology specialists.
LUMINOUS, founded by Mike Badley and Ed Samkin in 2017, is one of the leading manufacturers of special effects hardware, engineering and producing a diverse range of SFX equipment, including fire, water, and smoke effects for the entertainment industry. Operating from an 8,500 sqft workshop in the heart of the South West, the company specialises in the delivery of special effect products for live events, installations, and themed entertainment
Upon arrivial, Her Royal Highness met the Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Anne Jobson, and the Chief Executive of Exeter City Council, Ms Bindu Arjoon. The Princess Royal then went on to tour Luminous’ headquarters, meeting engineers and staff, and learning about the company’s cutting-edge work in manufacturing special effects for the entertainment industry. Her Royal Highness was shown a range of Luminous’ special effects, including the company’s brand-new HYDRA-STORM Rain Machine, as well as spectacular fire and smoke effects. Staff demonstrated how these technologies are used to create unforgettable experiences in live entertainment, touring and theatre productions. The visit concluded with the unveiling of a plaque commemorating The Princess Royal’s visit, revealed using a kabuki curtain, marking the occasion in true Luminous style.
The Princess Royal’s visit came on the recommendation of the Lord-Lieutenant of Devon following Luminous’ recent recognition with a King’s Award for Enterprise 2024, celebrating the company’s innovation and international success. This visit is a tremendous acknowledgment of the skill, creativity, and global impact of the team, highlighting that world-class innovation can thrive outside of major metropolitan centres.