All smiles as Duke of York visits Worcestershire firm

The Duke of York was welcomed to the offices of Thomas Vale Construction in Worcester Road, Stourport, where he met staff and local dignitaries.

Prince Andrew arrived in the town nearly an hour later than expected in a helicopter, which landed at a nearby park, before being driven to his destination in a black Range Rover.

Wearing a dark suit, blue shirt and red tie, the Duke was shown into a meeting room where he was welcomed by group managing director Tony Hyde, before being given the opportunity to meet members of staff.

A relaxed and inquisitive Duke joked with employees and asked questions about the use of new technology in construction to design and build projects and save energy, and the impact changes are having on the industry.

He also chatted with two of the firm’s 70 apprentices, highlighting the importance of such schemes.

Until July last year, the Duke worked with UK Trade and Investment, part of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment.

In the role, he undertook a range of official duties, including encouraging British companies to become involved in international trade, selling British goods and services overseas, and the attraction and retention of inward investment to protect British jobs.

He completed his 45-minute visit to Thomas Vale by signing a visitors’ book and was presented with gifts including a hard hat and personalised high visibility vest.

On leaving, the Duke said: “I wish you every continued success.”

Mr Hyde said: “It was a great pleasure and privilege to have [Prince Andrew] here today, especially for the staff who have worked so hard.

“[The visit] demonstrates we’re doing the right things and taking the business forward with lots of innovation and technology.”

The Duke was also due to visit Worcestershire Group Training Association in Barbourne, Worcester.