PRINCESS Anne, the Princess Royal, joined an F1 legend as she paid a visit to an outdoor centre in the New Forest.

Avon Tyrell, run by UK Youth, welcomed the princess on Monday, October 9.

President of the charity and Formula One world champion Nigel Mansell CBE welcomed the royal along with chair of trustees, David Tomlinson and CEO Ndidi Okezie OBE.

Princess Anne is a patron of the charity, which has launched its new capital appeal to restore and expand the site.

Bournemouth Echo: Princess Anne being presented with flowers at Avon Tyrell.

She was taken on a tour of the site, met schoolchildren and the outdoor learning team based at the site.

The princess also planted a tree in honour of the late Queen Elizabeth II, which marked the start of a new era at Avon Tyrell as UK Youth begins its appeal to modernise the space.

It aims to create more opportunities for disadvantaged young people to enjoy outdoor learning experiences.

It is seeking £ 6.4 million to invest in an Experiential Learning and Sports Centre and restore the original manor house, built in 1891.

Bournemouth Echo: Princess Anne at Avon Tyrell

The house, owned by the Manners family, became a trust property in 1946.

The funds will be used to restore the house and build indoor badminton and football courts, a new climbing wall, an indoor archery range, a new café and kitchen, and an events and conference centre.

Ndidi Okezie OBE said: “We are absolutely delighted to have welcomed our patron Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, to Avon Tyrrell – her continued support for our work in delivering life-changing experiences for young people across the United Kingdom is unwavering and vital to us.

“Opportunities for young people to have access to nature and experience outdoor learning are absolutely vital for their personal, social and educational development. Outdoor learning helps young people build confidence, get out of their comfort zone and develop key leadership and life skills – as well as improving their mental health and reducing behavioural issues.

“We hope our Avon Tyrrell Capital Appeal, together with HRH The Princess Royal’s continued support for our work, will ensure thousands more young people are able to benefit from fantastic outdoor learning experiences.”