LIVE updates as the Duke of Edinburgh, HRH Prince Edward, visits Blackpool to mark Stanley Park's centenary
Today Blackpool will welcome a special Royal visitor to mark the centenary year of the resort’s iconic Stanley Park.
The Duke of Edinburgh is set to visit Blackpool’s award-winning Stanley Park today as the Grade II-listed park celebrates its centenary year.
His Royal Highness, Prince Edward, will attend an event at the park this afternoon, where The Duke will tour the grounds, see some of the recent improvements and meet local schoolchildren, community groups and organisation representatives.
The Duke will take in some of the park’s recently completed improvements and refurbishment work, including the Cocker Clock Memorial Tower and Italian Gardens.
During the visit, His Royal Highness will also see the recently refurbished Cocker Clock Memorial Tower, where The Duke will be invited to unveil a blue plaque commemorating Dr William Henry Cocker, Blackpool’s first Mayor.
Local schoolchildren will line Cocker Walk to welcome The Duke of Edinburgh, before His Royal Highness continues through the Italian Gardens and meets representatives of local community groups and organisations.
Crowds of expected to turn out today to give Prince Edward a true Blackpool welcome.
Follow our live blog for live updates, pictures and video as his visit gets underway.