Princess Anne was in County Fermanagh on Thursday, meeting veterans, medical professionals and young cadets as part of her 65th official visit to Northern Ireland.
The Princess Royal, who has made three visits to Northern Ireland this year, spent the day supporting ex-servicemen while recognizing communities dedicated to preserving the region’s history and heritage.
One of the key stops on her route was Brooke House Health and Wellness Center near Fivemiletown, where she met veterans and emergency services personnel benefiting from the center’s rehabilitation programs.
The facility provides support to serving and retired members of the armed forces, as well as police, prison and emergency service personnel, with a strong focus on mental health and recovery.
During a tour led by Executive Director Joan Clements, the Princess spoke with staff, volunteers and veterans about the center’s work.
She also visited her therapy gardens, where participants grow fruits, vegetables and flowers as part of a horticultural therapy program designed to improve well-being and restore confidence after trauma.
Head gardener Dougal Dorman said the princess had shown real interest in the project, taking an interest in gardening and asking questions about seasonal crops and how gardens contribute to recovery.
Later that day she traveled to Irvinestown, where she visited Derryvullen North Parish Church and Sacred Heart Church, greeting local residents and parish representatives before taking part in commemorative engagements relating to the 85th anniversary of the Royal Air Force Cadets.
As chair of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the Princess stopped to pay her respects at the graves of RAF members buried in the two cemeteries.
