Pre-school children surprised the Duchess of Gloucester as she bid farewell to staff, volunteers and supporters of a well-loved hospice charity.

The youngsters from Abacus Nursery in Dalston gathered outside neighbouring Hospice at Home Carlisle & North Lakeland to get a glimpse of the royal visitor.

The Duchess had spent 45 minutes touring the charity's base on the Barras Lane estate to help more than 100 of its staff, volunteers and corporate supporters mark its 20th anniversary.

During yesterday's tour, where guests gathered, the Duchess spoke with volunteers including Rosie Thomas, of Heads Nook.

Mrs Thomas holds fundraising events at Eden Golf Club and also works in the charity's shop in Penrith.

Mrs Thomas, who is one of the charity's longest-serving volunteers with 19 years under her belt, said: "It's super to have the Duchess here. It was very nice of her to come and see us.

"She was asking about how many of us there were and she was asking about how special Hospice at Home is for people here in Cumbria."

Jackie Graham, of Rosley, added: "Her questions were very meaningful and she wanted to know more."

Retired teacher Maureen Smith, 86, helps to raise funds for the hospice charity.

She said: "The Duchess was very charming and so accessible."

The Duchess, who unveiled a commemorative plaque, congratulated everyone on their efforts and the charity's work.

She said: "It is a great opportunity for me to come and say hello to a few of you but possibly for you to see each other too.

"I have so much to congratulate Hospice at Home for, that is not least the tremendous input over the last 20 years.

"I know there are many people in this county who have been enormously grateful for the assistance they have had and will have in the future."

Fiona Stobart, chief executive of Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, thanked guests.

She said: "We are both honoured and delighted for the Duchess to come and see us."