The Duke of Gloucester officially opened iSightCornwall’s Resource Centre in Truro when he visited last week accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Edward Bolitho.

The centre provides a place for anyone living with a visual impairment in Cornwall to discover what support is available to them. They can try out gadgets and technology that can make everyday living easier, discover which low vision aids they could benefit from, and gain confidence in the kitchen with specially adapted equipment.

His Royal Highness was welcomed to iSightCornwall by Carole Theobald, deputy CEO, and Christian Wilson, chair of trustees. During his visit the Duke was introduced to staff, volunteers and clients as well as observing a low vision clinic and an assistive technology demonstration. He also took a look around the new independent living kitchen where chefs from Fifteen Cornwall and iSightCornwall clients were making fresh pasta.

Following the Duke’s visit, Carole Theobald said: “It was an honour to welcome His Royal Highness to iSightCornwall and introduce him to so many of our clients and volunteers. It was an unforgettable afternoon for everyone involved. The charity is celebrating its 160th birthday this month, so to mark the occasion with a royal visit was something very special.”

Claire Rogers, who is a client at iSightCornwall, spent the afternoon in the independent living kitchen with the chefs from Fifteen Cornwall. She said: “The most important thing for me was realising that there are lots of things I could be using that would make my life easier and knowing that as my sight continues to deteriorate I’ll still be able to cook.”

Chris Kemp, iSightCornwall volunteer, added: “I thoroughly enjoyed myself, it was a great experience. I was honoured to meet His Royal Highness and was impressed with how well the event was organised.”

To find out more about the services on offer at the Resource Centre contact iSightCornwall on 01872 261110 or visit isightcornwall.org.uk.