The Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations’ Council (EVOC) welcomed the Princess Royal as part of its 150th anniversary

A Royal visit was held this week to mark the work of Edinburgh charities.

Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal paid a visit to the Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations’ Council (EVOC), to officially recognise the organisation’s outstanding contribution to the voluntary sector and the City of Edinburgh, as part of its 150th anniversary.

Greeted by the Lord Provost, Princess Anne was treated to the premier of the EVOC 150 documentary film and took the time to speak to charities and voluntary organisations that EVOC has either help to set up, supported or launched over the years.

After greeting staff, the Princess unveiled a plaque to congratulate EVOC on 150 years and to officially open our new premises at 525 Ferry Road.

Her Royal Highness was then presented with EVOC’s new 150th anniversary publication, Celebrating 150 years: Reflections on EVOC’s history.

Ella Simpson, EVOC chief executive, said: “We were delighted to receive recognition from HRH the Princess Royal for our 150th anniversary and the official opening of our new premises.

“HRH has been involved with charities and the voluntary sector for a substantial amount of time and understands the unique contribution the sector makes to communities.

“We know that this day will go down in our history and serves as a reminder for years to come of the important and tireless work that Edinburgh’s voluntary sector does.”

The royal visit and last month’s Civic Reception mark the end of the Heritage Lottery Funded programme of EVOC 150 events.