By Barbara Ellington, Senior Gleaner Writer
Violinist Jessica Yapp converses with Princess Anne while Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke looks on. The event was a reception for the Princess Royal during her visit to the island. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
THE STATELY residence of Governor-General Sir Howard and Lady Cooke opened its doors to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, for a cocktail reception, on Saturday, February 26. It was just one of several activities in her packed schedule over the three days that she visited the island.
The Princess Royal looked the picture of understated elegance in a navy blue lace two-piece outfit that fitted her trim figure to perfection. The Gleaner obtained these details from her lady-in-waiting, Madelene Loulouds. That outfit was accompanied by a gold and diamond necklace, brooch and earrings, navy satin gloves and low heeled 'sensible' black shoes and evening bag. The Princess Royal favours sensible shoes. Her hair was swept up and pinned in place. Interestingly, her personal dresser is a Jamaican.
WELL-INFORMED
Unlike her mum, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who exchanged pleasantries quickly and moved along the line of officials specially invited to meet her at King's House during her golden jubilee visit, Princess Anne chatted with everyone she met for at least three minutes. Her grasp of local matters and familiarity with all subject matters suggests that she does her homework too.
The princess was presented to Senator Bruce Golding and members of the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party as well as members of the ruling People's National Party present.
So, with Ed Bartlett, Opposition spokesman on tourism, the chat centred on our major money earner and with Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) head, Senator Norman Grant, she talked coffee, bananas and farming in general. And, the senator was ecstatic because it seemed, "She did not want to stop talking to me!" But, the busy Mr. Grant has more to smile about these days, what with his new product set to make its debut soon.
CONGRATULATIONS
With our brilliant scholar, young Dr. Parris Lyew Ayee, she spoke about geography and congratulated him for returning to Jamaica because his country was expecting much of him. With one scholar pursuing law, she quipped, "Another lawyer, we need more scientists."
And adopting a relaxed stance, she asked Mall Jewellers' Gordon Tewani, "What brought you to this country?" The Princess Royal spent a very long time speaking with the outstanding scholars and had words of encouragement for all.
For little Jessica Yapp, it will be a night to remember because she met a real life princess who was very appreciative of the violin solo. The over 60-strong Immaculate Conception High School orchestra and steel band, provided music, having rehearsed all week.
RELAXED AND HELPFUL
Lady Cooke was relaxed and helpful as was Dr. Marion Bullock Ducasse. Lorna Golding pulled out a sexy black cocktail number and Urla Junor looked sparkling by hubby John's side, having done official duties with him for the princess's visit.
Audrey Hinchcliffe looked gorgeous in her black gown as she made an appearance before heading off to celebrate Aloun Assamba's 50th birthday black-tie bash and Desmond McKenzie, the city's mayor, looked a picture of sartorial elegance in his pin stripes. He would be honoured by Rotarians later that night.
Meanwhile, MP Bobby Pickersgill had a quiet birthday celebration with friends and the evergreen Norma Creary still plans to mark her recent birthday with a party in St. Mary.
