ASCEND charity visited by HRH The Duchess of Gloucester

HRH The Duchess of Gloucester was given a warm welcome when she visited South Oxhey charity ASCEND on Wednesday (23 February).

The Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss, introduced the Duchess to civic dignitaries and the ASCEND team including clients, volunteers and staff.

The civic guests included Cllr Keith Martin, Chair of Three Rivers District Council, and Joanne Wagstaffe, Chief Executive of Three Rivers District Council.

The Duchess was given a tour of ASCEND’s community hub, known as ‘Step Up’, by Brian Thomson, Chairman of the Trustees.

Mr Thomson said: “2021 was ASCEND’s twenty-fifth anniversary but sadly we were unable to celebrate. Today’s visit from The Duchess of Gloucester is a marvellous opportunity for us all to reconnect and for the work of the team to be recognised.”

The Duchess chatted to clients and volunteers about their experiences during the pandemic and heard how ASCEND’s support had been vital for them. HRH also met front line staff who, despite the logistical challenges of lockdown, worked tirelessly to continue to deliver key services. This included a food bank supported by local volunteers.

• Caption: Civic dignitaries including Joanne Wagstaffe, Chief Executive of Three Rivers District Council, and Cllr Keith Martin, Chair of Three Rivers District Council, are introduced to the Duchess.