The Earl and Countess of Wessex visit Essex

The Earl and Countess of Wessex were in Essex this week, visiting Foulness and Mersea Islands. 

At the Mersea Island Community Centre, The Earl and Countess met local schoolchildren and members of the community.

Children from Mersea Island Primary School sang 'Happy Birthday' to The Earl - who turned 56 on Tuesday. 

At the Wilkin and Sons, The Earl and Countess learned about farm to factory production.

Wilkins have farmed in Tiptree for almost 300 years: the estate produces unusual fruits such as medlars, mulberries and quince – as well as strawberries, raspberries, cherries and plums.

These fruits are then made into preserves and jams in the factory.

As a final birthday surprise for The Earl, Tiptree bakers prepared him a cake!