LAST Friday, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) welcomed The Princess Royal to the Enniskillen Campus of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) as part of a two-day visit to Northern Ireland.

Princess Anne was greeted by CAFRE’s Director, Martin McKendry, who accompanied her on a tour of the equine facilities where she met with CAFRE staff and students. On her arrival, McKendry said: “I am delighted to welcome the Princess Royal to the campus today to showcase our facilities at the campus and to introduce her to the students and staff.

“CAFRE has excellent facilities for the delivery of our equine education courses including breeding, racing, equitation and farriery units. These facilities provide students with invaluable experience in managing and riding horses.”

VISIT

During the visit, staff highlighted to their guest that 93% of the Campus’s students gain employment or continue further education within six months of graduation. The College also has excellent links to America, in particular with Coolmore and Darley in Kentucky.

CAFRE BSc student Naoisa Faux, from Newtownbutler, Co Fermanagh commented: “I was excited to meet the Princess Royal and discuss how I’m really enjoying my time at CAFRE, studying for my Honours Degree and developing a deeper understanding of the academic side of equine management as well as my practical skills. I was delighted to outline how I had the opportunity to lead up one of the College’s thoroughbred foals for sale at Goffs recently. I’m now looking forward to travelling to Kentucky with six other students, and three staff, to develop my international experience.”