THE Princess Royal has visited Colchester to see the capabilities of members of the Royal Logistic Corps.

Princess Anne visited 13 Air Assault Support Regiment Royal Logistic Corps at Merville Barracks yesterday in her role as Colonel-in-Chief of the corps.

The regiment’s core role is to provide logistic and equipment support to 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s airborne rapid reaction force. It is trained and equipped for parachute, helicopter and air landing operations.

During her visit, Princess Anne talked to soldiers about the demands of their role and saw the equipment they would use on operations.

She also saw demonstrations of the troops’ role from dropping supplies by parachute to repairing vehicles in the field. She also met families and presented awards to a number of soldiers.

Staff Sgt Daniel Thompson and Cpl Godfred Otchere received long service and good conduct medals, awarded to soldiers who have served for 15 years with a clean disciplinary record.

Staff Sgt Emmanuel Ottih was presented with a General Officer Commanding 1 (UK) Division Commendation for his work on Operation Shader in Iraq.

Supply specialist Cpl Otchere, 39, has deployed to Afghanistan on operations twice since joining the Army in 2004.

The father-of-three said: “I’ve worked hard and played by the rules, and it is nice to have my service recognised.

“It’s a real honour to receive a medal from the Princess Royal; she was very nice and asked about my work and family.”

Lt Col James Beere, commanding officer of the regiment, said: “The visit by Her Royal Highness has been a great honour for the regiment.

“It allowed the princess to meet our soldiers and learn about every aspect of the unit’s life, from supporting operations and exercises around the world to the every day lives of our people supporting the brigade and the wider community.”