THE borough has today welcomed royalty as the Duke of Gloucester paid his second visit in two years.

A year after Claybury Park in Woodford Green was returned to public ownership the park has received an official opening by the Duke.

The popular 70-hectare green space was handed over to Redbridge Council last July after years of being owned by developers Crest Nicholson.

A ceremony this morning saw HRH Duke of Gloucester unveil a commemorative stone to mark the occasion.

Sue Nolan, cabinet member for leisure, said: "It's a real honour to receive a visit from HRH The Duke of Gloucester and I'm really pleased we have been able to commemorate the transfer of Claybury Park in such a special way.

"The borough is lucky to have many parks and open spaces.

"Claybury Park is a real treasure and already enjoyed by many residents and I’m sure many will continue to enjoy it for generations to come."

The VIP visit has also included a tour of Gants Hill library, the borough's oldest library, which has recently been refurbished.

It is the second time the Duke has visited the borough in two years, opening Valentines Mansion in 2009.

Residents campaigned tirelessly to see Claybury Park returned to public ownership and they were overjoyed last year when the council took control.

A fun day was also planned to mark the official opening of the park but it had to be cancelled after residents living near the park raised concerns about a licence being granted for the event which may have led to future similar events.

On September 11 two historians are due to speak about the history of the park at Fullwell Cross Library, Barkingside.

The free event has been organised by environmental group Barkingside 21 in partnership with the Ilford Historical Society and sponsored by Redbridge Council.

The event will be from 2pm until 4pm.