Princess Anne presented trustees of one of the UK’s oldest maritime charities with awards for a combined 60 years of service.

Captain Mike Marchant and Captain Anthony David Braithwaite were presented with certificates by The Princess Royal in recognition of a combined 60 years supporting the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, which is based in Woodmansterne Lane, Banstead.

The charity has provided nursing care and accommodation support to elderly, sick or disabled ex-seafarers, their widows and dependents since 1865.

The princess, who is the charity’s patron, also met with staff, residents and supporters at the charity’s annual general meeting.

The charity’s chief executive Commander Brian Boxall-Hunt said: "Her Royal Highness takes a keen interest in the society’s activities and we were delighted that she was able to present the two long-service awards to our retiring trustees.

"With a combined 60 years of service, we are extremely grateful to Captains Marchant and Braithwaite for all the work they have done for the society and the support they have given us, especially considering the average length of time for a trustee nationally is frequently quoted as nine years."