ANGUILLA--His Royal Highness Prince Andrew, Duke of York, was welcomed at Wallblake Airport by Governor Peter Johnstone, Deputy Governor Roger Cousins, members of the Government Chief Minister Osbourne Fleming, Victor Banks, Eric Reid, Kenneth Harrigan and a large crowd of onlookers in the waving gallery on Tuesday afternoon. He seemed very happy to be in Anguilla and shook hands with a number of people in the crowd.
He was greeted at Wallblake House by Trustees of Wallblake House Emile Gumbs, Malcolm Hope-Ross and Marjorie McClean. He enjoyed his tour of the house and hearing its history and the story of its restoration. Four local artists--Cheddie Richardson, Louise Brooks, Melsadis Fleming and Bernice Fahie-Richardson--displayed some of their work for the Prince.
When he left the house the Duke was met by Chief Minister Osbourne Fleming, who was presented with the keys for the Radio Anguilla outside broadcasting vehicle (see separate story).
The Prince seemed to particularly enjoy his visit to North Side and to the home of Ponchita Richardson and her sister, which was completely flooded in Hurricane Lenny. Ponchita told the Prince her story in great detail and showed him through the house and the parts that were damaged. He was amazed to hear that she had lost her front door and never did find it.
The Prince is accompanied by John White, Head of the Overseas Territories at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London, an equerry, a security officer and his assistant private secretary.
The Duke and his party are staying at Sonesta Beach Resort. He has a full day of activities around the island on Wednesday.
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