Princess of Wales makes visit to Kent village

Catherine, Princess of Wales, smiles as she greets gathered crowds at Marina Mill in Cuxton

Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has visited a village in Kent on an official engagement.

The princess paid a visit to Marina Mill in Cuxton to celebrate the British textile industry.

The family-run business specialises in hand-designing and screen-printing furnishing fabrics out of an old Victorian mill on the banks of the River Medway.

Kensington Palace said the visit aimed to "celebrate the unique skill, creativity and craftsmanship of British textile manufacturers".

Natalie Ford's manager gave her time off so she could attend the royal visit

Speaking ahead of the visit, Natalie Ford, from Cuxton, said she was a huge royal fan, adding: "It's a shame I'm going to work so I'll miss the opportunity.

"Every time I see her on the telly, she's taking time out and she just seems so lovely and polite," she told BBC Radio Kent.

"After all the treatment she's been going through, and she still puts a smile on everyone's face."

Ms Ford's manager, Matt Adlington, said she heard her employee on the radio and decided to give her time off to try to see the princess.

Mr Adlington said that Ms Ford was "the best employee", adding: "I know she's a big fan of the royals and she knows everyone in Cuxton and everyone knows her, so she definitely deserves it."

Local residents Mark Nowell and Kay Wickes were excited to welcome the princess to Cuxton

Cuxton residents Kay Wickes and Mark Nowell were also excited ahead of the royal visit.

"She carries herself so well in public and with her children," Ms Wickes said.

"We're really looking forward to seeing her. I'm going to get myself ready, nails done and flags out to welcome her."

Mr Wickes said: "I don't know of anyone else as well-known as Princess Kate who's come to Cuxton before. She's an amazing lady."

Catherine's visit to Kent comes days after her appearance alongside William, Prince of Wales, to mark the third anniversary of the death of the late Queen Elizabeth II.