Princess Anne opens homes for veterans

Princess Anne, the sister of King Charles, opened the 'village' in Aylesford, Kent

The Princess Royal attended the opening of new homes for disadvantaged veterans in Kent.

The Royal British Legion Industries’ (RBLI) Centenary Village provides a range of accomodation, along with welfare support for residents.

A total of 40 new homes were opened by Princess Anne on Friday at the £22m development near Maidstone.

The RBLI's CEO, Lisa Farmer, said it was an "honour" to receive the princess.

The RBLI was formed in 1919 to support injured soldiers returning from World War One.

The organisation launched a campaign in 2019 to build the Centenary Village.

The development includes assisted living, apartments which have been adapted for disabled people, and new family homes.

Princess Anne was received by Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Lady Colgrain, who introduced her to RBLI representatives

During the visit, the Princess Royal met new residents Rod Eldridge, who served in the Royal Engineers for 18 years, and his wife Veronica.

Before moving to the village, they experienced 19 months of abuse from a neighbour that had caused Veronica’s weight to drop to 6st 6lbs.

Ms Eldridge said: “Rod was so strong throughout the abuse we suffered but if he hadn’t phoned RBLI when he did, I don’t think I’d be here today.

Ms Farmer said: “It’s so important to provide a community and opportunities – rather than just a roof over people’s heads – and that is exactly what we have been able to achieve here.

"There’s a strong demand for homes, which currently outstrips supply, so we are continuing to work with our supporters to raise the necessary funds," she added.