HRH Princess Michael of Kent officially opened the refurbished Starlight Centre at Peace Hospice in Watford today.

The princess unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion at The Starlight Centre, which offers a variety of services to people in the early stages of their illness.

Princess Michael, patron of the hospice, praised its work.

She said: "I thank you for inviting me here today and it is my great privilege to unveil the plaque to officially open the Starlight Centre.

"Peace Hospice Care has a very special place in my heart. I am aware that this is a charity made up of individuals who are passionate and committed to moving it forward and making a difference to the lives of the people in south west Hertfordshire who need your services."

Watford Observer:

The royal was shown round the new facilities by David Ellis OBE, chairman of trustees, Sue Plummer, chief executive and Jackie Tritton, director of patient services at the hospice.

She also visited patients at the hospice.

Mr Ellis said: "When she visits, she has interest in the patients, their families and the carers who look after them."   

Watford MP Richard Harrington was among the guests on hand to meet the princess. He said: "I am delighted to be involved with Starlight and was pleased to get the Department of Health to contribute a significant amount towards it.

"I’m very proud that the Peace Hospice is predominant among hospices in the country and I think it is good for Watford’s reputation."

Dan Dark, vice-president and managing director of Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden was also there, and said: "I think the Peace Hospice is a fantastic organisation that we are really proud to continue to support and what’s great is that the support is not just at a corporate level, our staff are very proud to support it."