South of England Show

There was a very special atmosphere as on Thursday 9th June 2011 as GLCT helpers met on the edge of the coach park to await a coach and two cars bringing pupils from Manor Green College, Crawley to spend the day at the South of England Show.

What was so special about this day? Representatives from Manor Green College, Crawley, were to have the honour of meeting a member of the Royal Family - Prince Edward, HRH the Earl of Wessex! The Prince was visiting the show, and it had been arranged for some of the students to be presented to him during his tour of the showground.

It did indeed turn out to be a special day for everyone. The majority of the group started with an hour long guided tour with one of the wonderful Show guides, and then spent the rest of the day mingling with the thousand other visitors who packed the annual event.

At midday, the twelve students selected for the presentation gathered at the arranged location; proudly received their security passes and lined up very smartly to await the arrival of Prince Edward. To everyone's disappointment, the threatening rain clouds became a reality but even that shower didn't dampen the children's excitement. As Prince Edward appeared, Rosie stepped forward and dropped down into a very dignified curtsey she had practised for weeks at school, presenting the posy of flowers (which she had carefully held for some time)to the Prince. He was very gracious in his acceptance of them from her, and then instantly gathered the children round him as he said "We can't talk if you are all standing in a straight line, can we?"

Price Edward, HRH the Earl of
Wessex stops by for a chat

Instantly everyone felt at ease as he asked the children about their visit; what they had seen; what they had done during the morning; and whether they were having fun. When Nathan presented him with a copy of the GLCT Newsletter he remarked that he had read that edition, and commented that this was the same as the one he had already received.

There was laughter throughout the time Prince Edward talked with the group, and he also chatted to the volunteers with the GLCT, admiring the fact that they take time out of their working days to help the children enjoy such a visit. As the Prince went on his way,one of the teachers remarkled that this had been such an honour for the pupils,and it was agreed that they had all been fantastic ambassadors for their school.

During the day everyone in the group had the chance to sample so many experiences. They watched Harris hawks and falcons flying free; tried their hand at fly fishing; giggled at several families of piglets who seemed as hungry as the children were; examined all sorts of farm animals, even smelling, but not seeing, a ferret; and compared the sizes of rabbits, from the very small to a couple as large as fox terriers.

At lunch time, the plan was to picnic while watching the visiting motorcycling display team in the main ring,but that was delayed due to the damp and slippery conditions. The group enjoyed their picnic watching beautiful ponies and traps instead.

There was just enough time for a bounce on the Castle and a trip in a plastic ball round the water pond for a few of the more adventurous pupils, before boarding the coach for their return journey to school.

Every year the GLCT try to ensure their guests have as much fun as possible at this show,as there is always so much to excite and interest the students. But this is the very first year the charity has been able to invite any guests the chance to actually chat with a Prince!

Credits:
Thanks to Chris Pascoe of Aspects Photography for providing the photography - www.aspectsphotography.net