Princess Anne visits Antrim Castle Gardens to view new Northern Ireland Centenary rose

Princess Anne visited Antrim today to view a new Northern Ireland Centenary rose.

During her one day visit Princess Anne visited Antrim Castle Gardens, where she met with the gardening team and local volunteers.

The Princess Royal presented them with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in recognition of their role in community life.

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Colin Dickson, the breeder of the NI Centenary Rose, then met Princess Anne in the castle gardens while she viewed the rose. She was then presented with a centenary rose pin.

She then met with staff from Antrim and Newtonabbey Council, who have been recognised for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.

At a reception, Her Royal Highness met with people from across Northern Ireland who are involved in a range of voluntary and charitable activities in their local communities (Jonathan Porter / Press Eye)

Her trip was made as part of celebrations marking the centenary of Northern Ireland. During her visit to Antrim Castle, she toured the gardens and was informed about a number of projects underway to mark the occasion.

Later that day she attended a reception at Hillsborough Castle where she met people from across Northern Ireland who are involved in charities and voluntary activities. Those in attendance included healthcare professionals who have been active during the pandemic.