"I was working as part of the care team at Athelstan House, when The King, then Prince Charles, officially opened the home in 2008.

I remember preparations for the event began at least a week in advance, with various security personnel and Trust colleagues busying themselves around the home. When staff were asked if they wished to meet Prince Charles in person, I initially felt reluctant.  However, after some deliberation I decided I would like to meet him. Looking back now I realise this was probably a once in a lifetime situation and so I am glad I did meet him. The meticulous extent to which the event was planned, and the number of people involved in organising it, was quite astonishing to all of us.

Arriving at work on the morning of the event I was taken aback by the number of official-looking people already about the home. Bags and other personal items were subject to security checks, which, although standard practice for such an occasion, proved most bemusing. Despite the excitement and activity, the morning passed much like any other.  Prince Charles arrived at the home sometime after lunch and after watching him enter the building from a window, we awaited his presence on the household.

As Prince Charles and his entourage reached our household, I recall feeling nervous as he approached.  However, my overall impression was how personable he was with people. He seemed very relaxed and had a jovial manner to him. As he came to me, we shook hands and he asked if I enjoyed my work to which I replied 'yes I do'. He went on to say how he thought it was very important work and to keep it up. After he left I remember people commented on how pleasant he seemed in person.

After Prince Charles had finished his tour of the home, he held an address in the reception area which many staff attended. He spoke about the importance of the care industry and expressed admiration for those that choose it as a career.”