News
The Prince of Wales visits Barnsley
24th January 2012
The Prince of Wales undertook a busy day of engagements in Barnsley today, stopping first to undertake the re-naming ceremony of the Britannia steam locomotive in Wakefield.
Built in 1951, the locomotive was the very first designed and built by British Railways.
Arriving at Wakefield Kirkgate railway station, The Prince re-named the Britannia, which having been withdrawn from service in 1997 was returned to the mainline in March last year.
Despite the rainy weather, crowds of well-wishers came to greet His Royal Highness.
Leaving the railway station, The Prince set foot in the offices of Barnsley’s local newspaper – The Barnsley Chronicle. Established in 1858, the Hewitt family became involved in its production in 1888 and the title is still owned by the same family, and works to support the local community.
During the visit, The Prince saw how the newspaper’s Twitter account was connecting online with Clarence House about His Royal Highnesses’ visit, via the official Clarence House Twitter account.
The Prince of Wales also met cricket umpiring veteran Dickie Bird, telling him he was hoping for an upturn in the England team's fortunes.
Bird said he was "humbled" to meet The Prince in his home town of Barnsley.
He said The Prince discussed cricket and the current series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates which began with a crushing defeat for England.
Bird said: "He said to me 'I'd like to see England do a lot better in this Test series'.
"I said 'I would as well'."
The Prince met Bird at the statue which was erected in the middle of Barnsley in 2009 to honour the former Test umpire.
The Prince also visited the Barnsley campus of Huddersfield University where he met young people involved in the Prince's Trust and donors to the charity.
The university has partnered with The Prince’s Trust to offer support to young people in Yorkshire, and encourage research in to areas such as the experiences of disadvantaged young people who are unemployed, not in education or training, and those looking to start their own businesses.
The Prince saw how The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme will be delivered with the help of the university, which offers support and funding to disadvantaged young people hoping to set up their own businesses.
The Prince left to complete his day in Yorkshire with a visit to Wentworth Castle, near Barnsley.
A group of well-wishers cheered The Prince as he walked between his various engagements in Barnsley town centre.