The Earl and Countess were greeted by the Maxwellton High School band playing the national anthem on the newly refurbished nineteenth century bandstand. Their visit included meeting some of the people responsible for the regeneration of Dock Park which was funded by Dumfries and Galloway Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Landfill Communities Fund.

The royal couple spent a lot of time meeting the public who had turned out to see them, and the Countess even took the time to play bowls and putting with some of the local schoolchildren. The Earl and the Countess then tried their hand at mini golf and then enjoyed some scenes from the World of Wonka; an interactive issue based learning experience, before meeting some of the Friends of Dock Park and children from Kids Ahoy.

Their visit came to a close with a few words from Provost Ted Thompson and the unveiling of the plaque by The Earl of Wessex, before Hannah Markey gave The Countess of Wessex a posy of white roses.

Councillor Colin Smyth, Chair of the Council's Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee said: "The official opening was a fantastic day. It was great to see lots of people turned out to see the Royal couple and they took time to speak to them, which was very much appreciated by the crowds.

"A great deal of effort has gone into transforming the park and I would like to thank everyone involved for all their hard work.

"I think it was really appropriate to have a Royal opening because the Dock Park is now very much a jewel in the crown for our area."

 
Notes to editors

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