In the spring of 1997, Princess Margaret was in town to open the Margaret Hurst Day Care Centre at Digby Court (Tuesday 20th May) which was named after the manager who had retired in 1996 after 24 years.

It was the first royal visit to the town for more than 30 years. The residential home for the elderly is administered by the Orders of St John Trust, one of the 70 charities of which the princess was patron. The manager, Agnes Grummitt, said afterwards: “The residents absolutely loved it, having their hair done as well as manicures and make-up all ready for the visit. The princess had a genuine interest in everyone and it was quite clear that she had done her homework.”

It was a sunny day and the princess wore a yellow dress for her whistle stop tour accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Mrs Bridget Cracroft-Eley, Lord Gainsborough and Brigadier Johnnie Walker OBE, director of the St John Trust, and marked the occasion by unveiling a commemorative plaque and signing the visitors' book before touring the home chatting with residents and staff.

The mayoress, Mrs Judy Smith, recalled later: “I was surprised how petite and attractive she was. I thought she was wonderful. Her visit was quite an event.”

 NOTE: Photographs of visit courtesy Agnes Grummitt and Jonathan Smith.

See also Digby Court