‘It was an honour’ – Duchess of Edinburgh visits Surrey’s Historic Centre in Woking

Whilst there, The Duchess toured the Centre’s extensive heritage services and met the staff and volunteers.

The Duchess was shown treasures from the Centre’s collections, including a signed letter by Lady Jane Grey, a Tudor swan roll, photographs and papers relating to the Surrey regiments on the Western Front, early Surrey maps and a rare 18th century handwritten Qur’an.

On a behind the scenes tour, The Duchess of Edinburgh was shown how the collections are stored, conserved and protected for future generations and how members of the public are using the collections today. She spoke to searchroom users, volunteers and staff members who told of the current projects they are working on.

Surrey County Archaeological Unit staff explained their work at Ankerwycke Priory and West Horsley Place alongside their mounted display of archaeological finds from recent excavations at these sites. The Duchess met with local volunteers who work on community archaeology projects.

Mike Page, County Archivist, thanked her Royal Highness for visiting to learn more about the amazing range of innovative work delivered by Surrey Heritage Centre with the help of its expert staff, volunteers and strong local partnerships.

Councillor Saj Hussain said: “It was an honour to meet Her Royal Highness today on her visit and to discover more myself about some of the most fascinating records held here.

“The centre welcomes everyone who wishes to find out more about Surrey’s heritage, if you haven’t visited yet then do see the website for opening times and all the great services they offer.”

Find out more about Surrey Heritage at https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/culture-and-leisure/history-centre and https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/culture-and-leisure/archaeology/archaeological-unit.