His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, and Patron of the BGS, paid a visit to Davison House at Brookfields Hospital, Cambridge.

Davison House accommodates patients receiving rehabilitation and continuing care.

The visit took place on Friday 27th September. Fortunately the weather was pleasantly warm and sunny, and several patients and staff greeted the Prince in our excellent gardens. The Prince spent several minutes with each patient, all of whom thoroughly enjoyed the occasion as did staff, the experience was most memrable for all involved and a tremendous boost to morale. We were fortunate that His Royal Highness had found time to honour us with a visit during a crowded schedule that took in a visit to the adjacent hospice and then on to the main event of the day - the rededication of the American Air Museum at nearby Duxford with the former President Bush.

I would strongly encourage colleagues in the BGS to consider hosting a visit from our Royal Patron and to liaise with Richard Lynham. Richard was of immense help to me both in making the initial contacts and in providing the accepted mode of address for my thank you letter. If you are due for a visit then expect a preparatory meeting with St James’ Palace staff, possibly at short notice. The visit itself will involve a police presence, the Lord Lieutenant of the county, other staff, and a press corps. It is likely that a visit may, as in our case, be combined with some other prominent local event. The happy memories and uplift to spirits do make all the effort worthwhile.

Tony Luxton