Princess Anne has paid a visit to three community projects.

The Princess Royal arrived in Lowestoft yesterday morning ahead of a tightly packed schedule.

As patron of Catch22, an education charity, she visited Silk Cutters House which helps vulnerable children with challenging behaviours.

Her Royal Highness was invited to view a display of pupil's work before she presented certificates.

Chris Wright, chief executive of Catch22, said: 'The Princess Royal's visit not only celebrates the children's achievements, it brings positive attention to a group that is all too often overlooked.'

The Princess also visited the Access Community Trust, a charity which helps people access housing, health, education and employment opportunities.

She unveiled a plaque for the charity's 40th anniversary year at Bridge View and spoke to kitchen volunteers Mark Beasley, Teresa Broxholme, Nadine Harding, Donna Horth and Angie Peterson.

Ms Peterson said: 'She was very knowledgeable about what we do here and very interested too.'

Emma Ratzer, chief executive, said: 'It is a privilege to have been chosen for a visit. It is a fantastic chance to show what we do.'

The Princess Royal also went to Gunton Baptist Church in Hollingsworth Road, where she spoke to volunteers at the Signpost Gunton charity, which runs Dreamworx – Lowestoft, Give and Take and the East Suffolk Foodbank.

She departed by helicopter from Denes Oval cricket ground.

The Princess Royal will also visit community projects at Gunton Baptist Church in Hollingsworth Road, where she will see the community work carried out by the Signpost Gunton charity, which runs Dreamworx – Lowestoft, Give and Take and the East Suffolk Foodbank.

Allyson Barron, Signpost Gunton chairman of trustees, said: 'We are absolutely privileged for the Princess Royal to be visiting.

'We are very pleased to be able to demonstrate what our charity offers.

'It is an opportunity to demonstrate how the work we carry out can uplift the community and empower families, contrary to the popular belief regarding foodbanks.'

Do you have a story about a community group? Email lowestoft.journal@archant.co.uk