An unforgettable day

Living Room reader Terry Ferdinand was asked to photograph Princess Anne opening Bishop Auckland College‚ in County Durham‚ on the 10th of January 2008 after a £17 million re-vamp. He shares his experiences and photographs of that special day:

"I was asked to attend the opening by the Weardale Gazette‚ which covers all local events. I would at this point like to say that Anita the editor is in the Guinness book of records for having the most royal memorabilia (!) but couldn’t attend‚ due to a previous engagement.

Princess Anne Her loss was my gain. Not having any experience of covering events let alone a royal visit‚ I was as pleased as punch. Armed with camera I was issued with the magic press card‚ allowing me to be close and personal with her Highness. Imagine my surprise‚ when I found out that I was one of only two photographers allowed to be with her during her visit.

Eleven thirty arrived and the helicopter touched down outside the new main building - I took the photos of her alighting and then rushed to the main door to snap her shaking hands with the waiting dignitaries.

HRH then proceeded to tour round the building with a very small party. As you can imagine the adrenalin was high. It was an incredible feeling to be at her side with no more than her Lady in Waiting‚ two security guards‚ the Lord Lieutenant of Durham‚ the Chief Constable of Durham‚ the College Principal‚ the other photographer and the college press officer. Talk about rubbing shoulders with the great and the good!

The Princess Royal was immaculate and dressed in beautifully tailored coat‚ hat and fur. Princess Anne was extremely well informed‚ smiled a lot and asked lots of relevant questions‚ she had time for everyone‚ she even thanked me for holding the door open for her.

Her Lady in Waiting was wonderful also. I chatted a lot with her‚ getting lots of background. Everyone was so open‚ friendly and affable including the Chief Constable and Sir Paul Nicholson the Lord lieutenant of Durham.

The Princess then moved into the main hall which was packed to bursting point with mayors and councillors‚ all waiting for the speeches and the unveiling of the plaque. I thought‚ these guys will get a glimpse of the Princess Royal‚ and I have stood next to her for hours. How lucky am I?!

Princess Anne said her goodbyes and was whisked back to the Palace by helicopter leaving us all open mouthed‚ and awe struck.

This was definitely a day I won’t forget in a hurry‚ to be this close to a very congenial and pleasant member of our great Royal Family for four hours‚ it was priceless. If I ever doubted the popularity‚ value or need for the Royal Family‚ this visit certainly dispelled any thoughts on that subject."

Princess Anne arrives in helicopter