An adult therapy and activity centre run by Diverse Abilities rolled out the red carpet for a royal visitor.

The Duke of Kent toured The Beehive in Poole, meeting invited guests, staff and students.

The Duke is the royal patron of The Splash Appeal, the charity’s capital appeal to build a therapy pool especially for adults with profound and life-long disabilities in Dorset.

He viewed newly approved plans for the life-changing pool and also talked with people supported at the centre.

The Duke heard about the activities they were taking part in including Father’s Day crafts, baking in the specialist training kitchen and physiotherapy sessions.

Helen Mortimer, Head of Fundraising at Diverse Abilities, said the visit was an honour adding: “It was wonderful to hear how supportive he is of our plans for the therapy pool and the extensive benefits it will have.”

Chelsey Mills, Manager at The Beehive, said: “The students at The Beehive were really excited to meet The Duke and the experience really lived up to their expectations.

“They had a great time showing him what they get up to and were thrilled to see him unveil the commemorative plaque.”

The Beehive supports 50 adults living with physical and learning disabilities.

Conditions include cerebral palsy, epilepsy, chromosomal disorders, undiagnosed syndromes and complex and multiple learning disabilities.

At the centre they are able to enjoy life enriching activities and much-needed therapy.

Once built the new therapy pool is expected to provide immense benefits to their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Founded in 1955, Diverse Abilities is the only charity that supports children and adults with profound physical and learning disabilities, and their families, in Dorset.

The charity is a lifeline to many families and provides round the clock care and support.

• Find out more about The Splash Appeal – and how you can get involved – at thesplashappeal.org.uk,
• diverseabilities.org.uk

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Gallery – pictures by Paul Collins/PC Visuals.