Duchess opens Tadley charity's new extension

Duchess of Gloucester visits SeeAbility

The Duchess of Gloucester opened a new extension at at the Tadley branch of the charity SeeAbility last Wednesday.

The Duchess, who is patron of the charity, visited Fir Tree Lodge, in Heather Drive, where she met resident Paul Button, who presented her with a posy.

Mr Button, who has no useful sight, showed the Duchess how he moves around independently using his SmartChair, a custom-built wheelchair.

The duchess was also shown a range of specialist equipment in the newly-enhanced sensory room, and met residents and supporters of the charity, before unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion.

Manager Karen Hebdon said: “We are very proud of what Paul and all the people living here achieve. Having a royal visit was very exciting for everyone.”

The Duchess was welcomed by the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, the mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Roger Gardiner, and his wife, Tricia, and SeeAbility’s chief executive, David Scott-Ralphs.

SeeAbillity supports people with sight loss, learning, physical and mental health disabilities, brain injury and life limiting conditions.