FIVEMILETOWN: Princess Anne visited Northern Ireland to support military veterans and recognize communities preserving the region’s history, marking her third visit to the province this year.
One of the main stops on her itinerary was Brooke House Health and Wellbeing Centre near Fivemiletown, where she met serving and former members of the armed forces, as well as police, prison and emergency service personnel participating in rehabilitation and mental health programs.
During a tour led by Chief Executive Joan Clements, the Princess Royal spoke with staff, volunteers and veterans about the center’s work.
She also visited its therapeutic gardens, where participants grow fruit, vegetables and flowers as part of a horticultural therapy program aimed at improving wellbeing and supporting recovery from trauma.
Head gardener Dougal Dorman said Princess Anne showed a keen interest in the initiative, asking about seasonal crops and how gardening contributes to participants’ rehabilitation and confidence.
Later, the Princess traveled to Irvinestown, where she visited Derryvullen North Parish Church and Sacred Heart Church, meeting local residents and parish representatives before taking part in events marking the 85th anniversary of the Royal Air Force Cadets.
More read, King Charles and Queen Camilla attend first flower show at royal estate
In her capacity as President of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Princess Anne paid tribute to Royal Air Force personnel by laying respects at their graves in both churchyards, honoring those who lost their lives in military service.
