A ROYAL visitor opened the tenth Chalke Valley History Festival this afternoon.

The Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla gave an opening speech before Rediscovering Women in History was discussed in the Hiscox tent.

It was the first time The Reading Room has collaborated with a festival. The digital platform was set up by HRH in January 2021 to help readers "connect with books they will love".

Audiences filled up the Hiscox tent and eagerly awaited HRH's arrival, who was delayed slightly by traffic.

Salisbury Journal: The Duchess of Cornwall was welcomed onto the stage, accompanied by novelist Philippa Gregory and author Alison WeirThe Duchess of Cornwall was welcomed onto the stage, accompanied by novelist Philippa Gregory and author Alison Weir

In her opening speech, The Duchess of Cornwall said: "It's a huge pleasure to be with you today.

"We've become the largest festival in the world dedicated to history, not bad for an event whose original intention was rather modest - to raise funds for the cricket club."

HRH discussed the importance of history, she added: "Understanding the past is essential, without that it is impossible to make sense of the present or prepare for the future."

Turning the audience's attention to the upcoming Reading Room event, Rediscovering Women in History with Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir, HRH said: "We are very lucky to have two of our finest historical novelists with us today.

"Through their books they have captivated literally millions of readers across the globe and given a voice to women who for centuries have been overlooked, forgotten, or misunderstood."

HRH ended her speech with thanks and famous words, "To you [contributors], we can apply famous words of the celebrated Wiltshire man, Christopher Ren - 'if you seek this monument, look around.'

"As we look around today, we see the fruits of your vision and labour and we're deeply grateful to you all."

Salisbury Journal: The Duchess of Cornwall's Reading Room collaborated with the festivalThe Duchess of Cornwall's Reading Room collaborated with the festival

The Chalke Valley History Festival runs until Sunday 26 June with ongoing indoor as well as outdoor events and activities.

Click here to see the schedule and book your tickets to any of the events.