FAMILIES at a market town are thrilled that their community is to have a visit from the Princess Royal.

FAMILIES at a market town are thrilled that their community is to have a visit from the Princess Royal.

The Princess will be attending a reception for Victim Support Suffolk in Stowmarket, for which she is president.

The charity, which used to have offices in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, and Lowestoft, has moved its operation to Prentice Road.

The Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk Lord Tollemache opened the new headquarters for the group, which helps the victims of crime, last month.

Frank Whittle, town mayor, said: “This is great. She is doing a wonderful job promoting the work of the charity as their president and the organisation is a very important asset to have based within our community.

“We are looking forward to seeing her. It's an accolade for the town and puts Stowmarket on the map, her mother was here about four years ago, it all helps.”

John Doylend, area manager for the charity in Suffolk, said: “It's quite a fillip for Stowmarket and really signifies that we have changed and improved services.

“We are an independent charity set up to provide support for victims of crime and witnesses who have to go to court to give evidence.

“We are now open from 8am to 8pm weekdays and get referrals from the police and telephone every single one to see how they are coping and if we can help.

“The Princess Royal is coming to have a look at our new offices, recognising our work and helping to raise our profile.”

Victim Support Suffolk helps residents cope with the effects of crime by providing confidential support and information to victims and to witnesses attending local courts.