There was added royalty at Gresham's School speech day this year, with a surprise appearance from HRH Princess Anne.

Eastern Daily Press: Princess Anne greeting Senior School pupil, Isabel Thurstonl. Picture: Gresham's SchoolPrincess Anne greeting Senior School pupil, Isabel Thurstonl. Picture: Gresham's School (Image: Gresham's School)

The Princess Royal attended the Speech Day service before opening a new wing of the Holt school, as well as planting a tree and unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion.

But despite her many duties on the day, Princess Anne still found plenty of time to chat with students.

The Princess Royal was at the school to mark the beginning of her new role as Prime Warden for The Fishmonger's Company.

The London-based guild supports charities including Gresham's School, meaning HRH joins the establishment's governing body as their ex officio governor.

Eastern Daily Press: Princess Anne planting a tree to mark the opening of the Britten Building. Picture: Gresham's SchoolPrincess Anne planting a tree to mark the opening of the Britten Building. Picture: Gresham's School (Image: Gresham's School)

Headmaster Douglas Robb said: 'We feel deeply honoured that HRH The Princess Royal has agreed to become a governor of Gresham's in her capacity as Prime Warden of The Fishmongers' Company. She follows in the footsteps of her father and Gresham's patron, The Duke Of Edinburgh who has been a governor previously.'

The Princess opened the school's new music centre, the Britten Building, as well as handing out prizes to more than 80 students.

Speeches took place in the school's Theatre in the Woods, attended by pupils, parents, hovernors and staff.

Head of School, Zara Raslan and Deputy Head of School, George Jefford both gave speeches and closed them with a musical performance.

Eastern Daily Press: Princess Anne unveiling a plaque for the Britten Building. Picture: Gresham's SchoolPrincess Anne unveiling a plaque for the Britten Building. Picture: Gresham's School (Image: Gresham's School)

Gresham's chairman of governors, Andrew Martin Smith announced that Cromer-born and former Gresham's pupil, Sir James Dyson, is to be a governor representing the Old Greshamian Club.

Mr Robb added: 'Gresham's is also very excited to welcome Sir James Dyson OM as a governor from September. The school is in great spirits after a lovely speech day and new facilities being opened. We are lucky enough to enjoy growing school numbers and are well set for the future.'