We’re honoured that royalty has marked the South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade's 160th anniversary
The South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade has received a royal visit.
The Princess Royal has marked the 160th anniversary of the South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade (SSVLB) with a visit to the brigade’s headquarters, in South Shields, on Wednesday, April 1.
Having visited Colmans Seafood Temple as part of their centenary celebrations earlier in the day, Princess Anne was greeted by local school children and brigade volunteers upon on her arrival at the iconic Watch House.
Her Royal Highness was given a tour of the building, which showcases many artefacts from throughout the SSVLB’s 160-year long history, and even climbed the spiral staircase to get a view from the top.
Welcome to South Shields
Tom Fennelly, 79, the brigade’s honorary secretary, has spoken of the honour to welcome Princess Anne to South Shields.
He said: "We were greatly honoured that the Princess Royal has came along to mark our 160th anniversary.
"She was very interested in all that we do and was keen to support the volunteer effort that goes into to supporting the brigade on all levels.
"It was a real honour to have her here in South Shields with us and I’m delighted that she took the time to meet the members of our team, as well as our supporters, friends and local school children.
“It is extremely important that since the beginning of the brigade in 1866 that we’ve been able to maintain the building, the equipment and the artefacts that has been acquired over the years.
“We think it is a massive part of what we do to keep that heritage alive and showcase it alongside our operational role.”
‘Immense personal privilege’
Tom was on hand to give the Princess Royal an insight into both the history and operations of the South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade, something which he has branded as a great honour.
He added: “It was an immense personal privilege, I represent the whole of the brigade - including both current and past members.
“It isn’t about any one individual, we are one big team here at the volunteer life brigade and we are very proud of the fact that we operate in that way.
“We are delighted that Her Royal Highness came along to mark the occasion of our 160th anniversary.”