PRINCESS Anne touched down in St Helens last Monday, to officially open the new £10.5 million Remploy factory.

The Princess, who arrived in the town by helicopter, arrived at the site on Lea Green Industrial Estate, where she was greeted by local dignitaries including the Mayor, Cllr Betty Lowe; St Helens Council Chief Executive Carole Hudson and Remploy executives.

During the trip, she was greeted by many of the company's employees, before unveiling the plaque to commemorate the opening of the new factory, which will be Remploy's household and toiletries headquarters.

Carole Hudson praised the borough's planners, saying that there was massive potential on the Lea Green site.

The Chief Executive of Remploy, Bob Warner said the Princess' visit was a great way to mark their 60th year.

Unveiling the plaque, the Princess commented: "I have visited a number of Remploy factories, but none are as new and as special as this.

"My congratulations to everybody involved and I hope it fulfils your ambitions."