APPRENTICES at an Ellesmere Port training provider were given a royal treat when Prince Andrew paid them a visit.

The Duke of York visited TTE Training Limited, New Bridge Road, to tour its facilities and meet staff.

Prince Andrew was greeted by the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire Thomas David Briggs, Lord Mayor of Chester Eleanor Johnson and her husband Derek Johnson, Cheshire West and Chester Council chief executive Steve Robinson and Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Andrew Miller.

After a private meeting with TTE’s chairman Josef Przeworski and chief executive Nick Smith, the Duke was introduced the company’s training officers and apprentices.

He talked to Phase 1 apprentice Natalie Lawson about her experience of the recruitment process – and asked if there was sibling rivalry between Natalie and brother James, a Phase 3 apprentice.

Prince Andrew concluded his visit by addressing all TTE apprentices, wishing them well on their chosen career paths and encouraging them to enjoy their training.

TTE was set up in 1990 to provide sponsored apprenticeships in engineering to young people in the North West.