Celebrations for the 150th anniversary of Wolverhampton's iconic statue of Prince Albert will get underway next week as the city welcomes a Royal visitor.

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His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester is coming to Wolverhampton on Wednesday 23 November to unveil a plaque commemorating the anniversary of the famous statue.

The Duke is the great great grandson of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Wolverhampton's statue of Prince Albert was unveiled in 1866 by Queen Victoria.

The Duke will arrive in Queen Square early afternoon and the event is open to the public.

Mayor of the City of Wolverhampton, Councillor Barry Findlay, said that he would be delighted to welcome The Duke to the city.

He added: "We are honoured that The Duke of Gloucester, a direct descendant of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, is coming to Wolverhampton as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the statue.

"He will unveil a plaque commemorating the occasion and I'm sure he will be keen to learn more about our celebrations in honour of this tribute to his great great grandfather."

Queen Victoria's visit to Wolverhampton in 1866 made headlines around the world. It was her first public appearance following years of private mourning after the death of Albert.

Queen Victoria was reportedly so touched by the tribute to her beloved husband that she knighted the Mayor of Wolverhampton on the spot.

The Duke's visit next week marks the start of a programme of celebrations marking the 150th anniversary.

The main celebrations will take place a week later on Wednesday 30 November which will mark 150 years to the day that Queen Victoria came to the city.

On the 30th, starting at 1pm there will be a re-enactment of Queen Victoria's visit by Wolverhampton Central Youth Theatre, a military parade by the 4 units which hold Freedom of the City and a mass toast to the statue and the city at 1.50pm.

This will be followed by a service of thanksgiving at St Peter's Church at 5pm.

In the evening, the Mayor will honour unsung community heroes of Wolverhampton at an awards dinner for invited guests.

More information about the anniversary and events is available at Type=links;Linkid=7603;Title=Prince Albert 150;Target=_blank;.

  • released: Wednesday 16 November, 2016