Royal well-wishers were today blown away by the visit of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, who arrived by helicopter to open Manuden’s new affordable housing development.

The Queen’s only daughter paid a flying visit to cut the ribbon for four affordable homes on David Collins Drive, which have enabled the funding and construction of a £1.6million community centre at the heart of the village.

After landing on the new football pitches - built as part of the deal struck by developers Pelham Structures - the English Rural Housing Association patron was shown around the new home of Elizabeth and Christopher Hannington, and presented with a poesy of flowers by daughter Amelie.

The royal visitor also planted a tree next to one of the houses, and enjoyed a buffet lunch at the new Manuden community centre.

“It was a perfect day,” said Manuden parish council chairman John Archer.

“It was a brilliant, the weather really helped. We did wonder though if she’d be blown off the land, it was so windy!”

He added: “She was very friendly, and very knowledgeable about rural housing.”

Councillor Julie Redfern, cabinet member for housing at Uttlesford District Council, said: “This is wonderful news for Manuden and the whole of Uttlesford.

“The visit by HRH The Princess Royal to officially open these much-needed affordable homes is a fitting way to acknowledge the work that has gone in to this ground-breaking project.”