Norwich prepares for Queen's visit

Kim BriscoeFloors have been scrubbed and windows polished ahead of the Queen's visit to Norwich Cathedral today.Kim Briscoe

Floors have been scrubbed and windows polished ahead of the Queen's visit to Norwich Cathedral today.

The Queen will be accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh for her first official visit to Norwich in almost eight years.

The Very Reverend Graham Smith, Dean of Norwich, said since the visit was announced the staff at the cathedral had been working very hard to ensure all the necessary preparations are put in place.

He said: 'The main task really has been allocating seats to invited guests but also overseeing a ballot of applications from members of the cathedral congregation and public who would like to be present.

'And then it has been about arranging the very considerable security arrangements.

'The staff and volunteers have been out and every pane of glass has been polished and burnished, floors scrubbed and all the last minute repairs carried out that have been waiting for a long time but have we have had to do.'

The Royal couple were due to attend a service at the cathedral, as well visiting the new Hostry Visitor and Education Centre and Refectory Restaurant and Coffee Shop.

They were due to meet members of staff and volunteers as well as some of the master craftsmen who have worked on the building of the Hostry.

While in Norwich, Her Majesty was also due to visit the Norfolk and Norwich Association for the Blind to officially open its new Bradbury Activity Centre at its Magpie Road headquarters.

For the latest on the visit log on to www.eveningnews24.co.uk. An 8-page special souvenir supplement will appear in tomorrow's Evening News