Princess Anne visits Great Yarmouth to celebrate firm’s 200th anniversary

A fertiliser firm’s bicentennial celebrations were given a regal touch with the visit of the Princess Royal.

Around 80 employees of Bunn Fertiliser gathered to greet Princess Anne, as she was given a tour of the 200-year-old firm’s factory on South Denes Road.

The Princess was taken around the terminal, along with a party of 11, which included Lord-Lieutenant for Norfolk Richard Jewson, and shown different pieces of equipment involved in day-to-day work at the factory.

Each employee was given personal introductions to the Queen’s daughter, who was in a talkative mood, quizzing each one on their roles and impressing with her own agricultural knowledge.

After greeting each person with a handshake, the Princess presented awards to long-serving employees, signed the visitor’s book and unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion.

In a short address she said: “Two hundred years as a company is something well worth celebrating, and goes to show how sharp the farming industry is. To maintain this for such a long time is a huge achievement.

“I hope people will appreciate just what has been achieved in that time.”

She also apologised for having to reschedule the visit, which was originally due to take place in March.

David Harrod, 57, who works in the company’s sales division and is a third generation employee, said: “It was a very proud moment for me to meet the Princess and celebrate my own 41 years with Bunn.”

Caron Bunnewell, 50, of the customer service department, who marked 33 years with the company, added: “I thought she was very down to earth and showed a genuine interest in what we do, which was lovely.”

Richard Gardner, 52, a factory supervisor, said: “It was a very enjoyable experience - she really knows her stuff.”

Following the Princess Royal’s departure, further awards for years of service were awarded, including one to 63-year-old Jim Holt, who has spent 43 years with the company.

Steve Coulter, Bunn Fertiliser managing director, added: “It gives me great pride to celebrate this achievement, and it was refreshing to see just how familiar with our industry the Princess is.”