The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge make their first visit to Keswick today – and will be welcomed by some remarkable people.

Among those the royal couple will be meeting are representatives of good causes operating across the county thanks to the efforts of volunteers.

William and Kate will meet Keswick Mountain Rescuers, whose expertise in swift water rescue was invaluable during the floods, and volunteers from Keswick Flood Action Group.

Vanessa Metcalfe, tourism manager with Keswick Tourism Association, says the town is busy from Easter onwards with tourists and visitors – but expects today to be much busier.

The time of William and Kate’s arrival hasn’t been revealed, but she says: “I’ve had numerous phone calls from people wanting to know what time they’re coming.

“There have been calls from the Borders, Carlisle and the South Lakes. People from all over the area are interested.”

She predicts: “It will bring quite a few people into the town today. And I don’t think the weather will make a difference. If people want to see the royal family they’ll come whether it rains or not.”

She sees a double benefit to the town from today’s visit. “If people are here for the day they are not just going to come and see the royals and go. They will have a look round the shops and have something to eat.

“And it’s going to be reported nationally, so it’s great marketing for the town.”