The Lord-Lieutenant was delighted to welcome HRH The Princess Royal to Kent during her visit to the Hospital of Sir John Hawkins in her capacity as Patron. The occasion marked a significant and historic moment, as The Princess Royal witnessed the raising of the White Ensign over the Hospital for the very first time. The honour, graciously granted by the Admiralty Board, recognises the Hospital as the oldest Royal Navy charity, founded by Royal Charter of Queen Elizabeth I in 1594.
During her visit, Her Royal Highness spent time learning more about the Hospital’s enduring work and meeting those who continue to benefit from its support. Established to provide care for “mangled mariners and shattered shipwrights”, the Hospital has remained on its original site for over four centuries, offering a safe and supportive home to former service personnel who have fallen on hard times. Today, the Hospital continues it’s vital mission, providing accommodation and support to veterans of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and wider armed forces community, as well as those connected to His Majesty’s Dockyards. The Governors and Pensioners take great pride in their continued connection to the Royal Navy family.
The Lord-Lieutenant warmly welcomed this special visit and the recognition it brought to such a remarkable and historic institution at the hear of Kent’s maritime heritage.
