The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge show support for business

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been out and about in Norfolk as the Royal Family showed its support for businesses across the UK. The couple spent time at local firms in Norfolk, hearing about how they are opening up again safely in the week that non essential services were allowed to welcome back customers again.

The Duchess of Cambridge carried out her first face to face engagement in three months on June 18th when she visited Fakenham Garden Centre to hear about measures put in place to allow customers to shop safely. The firm, which was set up in 1984, is close to her home at Anmer Hall.

She met the centre’s management and staff who told her about the challenges brought by the pandemic and their plans to adapt as they open up their business again. Kate also lent a hand while she was there, helping to put plants on display.

The Duke of Cambridge headed to Kings Lynn in Norfolk on June 19th where he visited Smiths the Bakers who have been trading in the town for half a century. After an 11 week closure, they are now open again for business. William spoke to the owners about the impact of coronavirus on trade and discussed the ongoing challenges of the pandemic.

The Duke, who celebrates his 38th birthday on Sunday, was also presented with a cake to mark the occasion, decorated with footballs and union flags.

The couple also shared some insights into how their children have been spending lockdown. Kate told the garden centre’s owners that she’s been helping them grow tomatoes from seeds while William revealed that George, Charlotte and Louis have attacked baking with enthusiasm.

The visits came as the Queen sent a message of support to the British Chambers of Commerce, of which she is patron. Her Majesty said ”As many organisations around the country are reopening, I send my warmest best wishes and support to business communities throughout the United Kingdom, Commonwealth and across the world. At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities.”

The message continued ”As Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, it gives me great pride to see the contribution you and your members are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities. I wish all businesses every success in their endeavours in the weeks and months ahead.”

It was signed ‘Elizabeth R.’

The Queen’s message and news of the visits by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge came as the UK’s coronavirus alert level was lowered to three, meaning that restrictions on movement could slowly begin to be relaxed.