Duchess opens new Guildford 'hub of hope'

THE Duchess of Edinburgh paid a visit to Guildford High Street this week to officially open a charity centre dubbed a “hub of hope” and known as the Lighthouse.

- By JOSEPH BICKLE

Duchess Sophie is a patron of the Lighthouse charity which has centres across the South East and aims to provide a “warm, welcoming” space that offers “practical help and genuine community to anyone who needs it”.

The grand opening of the charity's newest location was described by the organisation as being filled with “smiles, celebration and a huge sense of community, as The Duchess received a “joyful” welcome from volunteers, local supporters and guests.

During the visit, The Lighthouse detailed how Duchess Sophie received a tour of the newly refurbished centre, met with volunteers who make the work possible, and spoke with guests whose lives have been positively impacted by the charity's projects.