SHARE ON FACEBOOK

King and Queen to visit Blandford this week: All you need to know…

THE King and Queen will be in Dorset this week for a special visit.

King Charles and Queen Camilla will be in Blandford Forum on Thursday (July 16), when they will visit the recently-renovated Grade I-Listed Corn Exchange.

The newly-restored George II Royal Coat of Arms in the Town Hall will be viewed, which was gifted to Blandford Forum Town Council in 1893 by resident Frank Blanchard.

During their visit, the King and Queen will meet some of those involved in the building’s renovation project before viewing stalls inside the Corn Exchange hall showcasing the work of charities from across Dorset.

Those set to be featured are groups involved with veteran and prison services, community and domestic abuse support, volunteers, and others representing faith, arts, education and heritage, recognising harmony in Dorset.

“The Dorset Opera, which began as a small local initiative and has become a nationally recognised event, will perform on the hall’s stage,” Blandford Town Council said.

“Their Majesties will have the opportunity to meet some of the animals benefiting from the work of environmental organisations across the county, including Ruby the owl from Coastland College, a career-focused college offering academic, vocational and apprenticeship courses.

“Before departing, The King and Queen will be invited to unveil a plaque to mark the visit.

“Outside, The King and Queen will visit farmers’ market stalls displaying local produce. This will be Sweetpea Florist, Tarrant Valley Honey, The Book and Bucket Cheese Company, From Dorset With Love, The Veg Lady and South Paddocks.

“With a backdrop of a band, Their Majesties will meet members of the local community outside the Town Hall.”

They said everyone was welcome to join the event in the Market Place, with timing to be confirmed but those hoping to catch a glimpse of the couple should be on site by noon.

“Once Their Majesties have left the Market Place, the public are very welcome to visit the farmers’ market and enter the Corn Exchange to visit the exhibitions the Lord-Lieutenant has invited to attend,” the town council added.

For more information about the Corn Exchange and full road closure details, visit https://blandfordforum-tc.gov.uk/corn-exchange.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

I am the editor in chief of Blackmore Vale media, which includes the New Blackmore Vale, New Stour & Avon, Salisbury & Avon Gazette and the Purbeck Gazette, having been a reporter for some 20 years. In my spare time, I am a festival lover, with a particular focus on Glastonbury. I live in Somerset with my wife and two children.