GAZETTE & HERALD: BOSSES at road haulage giant Wincanton Plc say they are delighted that Princess Anne has agreed to cut the ribbon at the firm's new offices in Chippenham.

The Princess Royal will officially open the new premises at Methuen Park on June 9.

Previously based in four different towns across the West Country, the company decided to relocate to one purpose-built site in Chippenham.

Around 380 workers are moving into the new offices in stages, ready for the grand opening in June.

Charles Carr, communications director at Wincanton, said the company found out about their royal visitor several weeks ago.

He said they'd asked Princess Anne to open the new headquarters as she was patron of a charity called Transaid, which provides transport solutions for African countries, of which Wincanton was also the corporate sponsor.

"We are absolutely delighted that she has responded positively," said Mr Carr. "This is a huge move for the company and is a really exciting time for everyone. We wanted to make it a special day for the workers.

"Our roots have always been in the West Country, so we decided to move to Chippenham because of its very good communication links it's close to the M4, within striking distance of Heathrow and on the direct line to Paddington."

Details of the royal visit including the timing and itinerary, including who the princess will meet, are being kept under wraps under nearer the time.