STAFF and volunteers at two Northwich charity shops laid on a right royal welcome when Princess Alexandra visited yesterday.

The princess, who is vice president of the Red Cross and patron of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund, decided to drop in and see how things were going as part of a two-day trip to Cheshire for the opening of the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park today.

The princess began her visit at the Red Cross shop where 78-year-old war hero and ex Royal Marine commando Robert MCulloch presented her with a bouquet.

The great grandad from Acton Bridge was chosen for the honour because he is the oldest volunteer.

'I am a great admirer of the princess and felt very honoured indeed to be the one to present her with the bouquet,' he said.

Meanwhile, a few doors down at the Imperial Cancer Research Fund shop, it was party time with celebrations for the shop's 10th anniversary next Tuesday, brought forward to coincide with the royal visit.

While she was at the shop the princess was invited to cut the cake and take tea with staff and volunteers.

Shop manager Alyson Taylor said the visit couldn't have been better timed.

She said: 'We all felt a bit nervous, but it all went very well.'