A WORCESTER school celebrating its 150th anniversary has marked the occasion with a royal visit.

Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, visited New College Worcester, a residential school and college for young people who are blind or partially sighted, this afternoon (Friday)

She was treated to a performance by students as well as a tour of the college, in Whittington Road.

During her visit the Countess, who arrived by helicopter, joined pupils baking in the college's Living Skills Room, unveiled a commemorative plaque and even tried her hand at 'goal ball'.

The college has already enjoyed a Jubilee day for pupils past and present to celebrate its anniversary.

It will also be holding a summer concert, and produce an oral history project involving current and former students, as well as host a Christmas concert in Worcester Cathedral.

The college dates back to 1866, when it was established as Worcester College for the “blind sons of gentlemen” at the Commandery.

It later moved to Powick before coming to its present day site in 1902.

In 1944 it became a grammar school for blind boys and, in 1987, merged with Chorleywood College to form the co-educational, comprehensive RNIB New College Worcester.

Mardy Smith, principal, said: "It is a great honour to have a royal visitor to the college, and it is particularly special as this year is our 150th anniversary."