Prince Edward, HRH the Duke of Kent, has paid a special visit to St John’s Church, Ingrow, where he was welcomed by Revd Dr Tracey Raistrick.
The church has stood at the heart of the Ingrow community since its construction in 1842.
It was paid for in part by monies from the same mill owners who supported the original creation of the branch line that now occupies the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. Many of these men are buried in the churchyard.
Prince Edward called in on his way to meet KWVR volunteers and workers and the historic locomotive Bahamas 45596 at its home at Ingrow station.
Revd Tracey said the royal visit came at a time where the church, which is in the Bradford Episcopal area, was looking for ways to open up the fabulous heritage of the building and grounds to better serve the community once again.
She said: “The congregation at St John’s Church were delighted to have the opportunity to welcome his royal highness to the church.
“The Duke of Kent’s visit initiates a period of community consultation as we look for fresh ideas and new partnerships for investment in Ingrow, Hainworth and Bracken Bank as we look to live out God’s love among the people here.”
The Duke of Kent, born in 1935, is first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II through their fathers, Prince George, Duke of Kent, and King George VI.
He has held the title of Duke of Kent since the age of six, after the death of his father in a plane crash in 1942.
He carries out engagements on behalf of the Queen, and is himself involved with around 140 charities.
He is president of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club - presenting prizes at Wimbledon each year - the Scout Association and the Royal Institution of Great Britain, and since 1967 he has also been the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England.