THE bunting is going up and the flags are ready to welcome the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge when they arrive in Keswick next week.

The Royal couple will make their first visit to Cumbria on Tuesday.

They have been invited to an event to celebrate the resilience and spirit of rural and farming communities in the region.

First on their itinerary will be a trip to Keswick.

They will join in a celebration to recognise the contribution of individuals and local organisations in supporting families and communities across the county.

During their trip they will meet volunteers from Keswick Mountain Rescue Team and Keswick First Responders.

They will also meet young people trained as mental health first aiders and other organisations that have benefitted from grants from Cumbria Community Foundation.

The organisation exists to address disadvantage by making life-changing grants and promoting philanthropy.

Before leaving Keswick, the royal couple will meet with members of the public in Market Square.

Town councillor Alan Dunn said the visit was “great news” for Keswick.

He said: “It’s great - absolutely brilliant that Keswick is hosting their first visit to the county.

“It’s a privilege for us to have them.

“I hope the whole town turns out to see them.”

Pupils at St Herbert’s CofE Primary School on Trinity Way are also hoping to catch a glimpse of William and Kate.

A spokeswoman for the school said: “We are having a meeting today to try and organise what we might do. “It’s great news for the town and the children.”

And shops in the town centre are also busy preparing. Staff at Seasalt clothing in the town centre are very excited.

Sales advisor Stephanie Kitson said: “We can’t wait.”

And supervisor Katie Norman said: “We have been on to head office to see if we can do some offers that day and we’re hoping to get some flags and bunting. It’s great news for the town.”

After the visit to the town centre, the Duke and Duchess will then visit a traditional fell sheep farm. They will meet members of the Cumbrian farming community and learn about some of the key challenges facing farmers. They will also hear about the peer support networks that are helping those in rural areas.