The Duchess of Cornwall officially opened Community First’s new offices in Devizes this morning.

Camilla, who is patron of the charity, had a tour of the offices in Hopton Park along with launching Community First’s 50th anniversary celebrations that will last throughout 2015.

She met with chairman Dr Martin Hamer, president Sarah Troughton and chief executive Philippa Read along with staff, volunteers and supporters of the organisation.

Mrs Read said: “It was a privilege and an honour to have the Duchess come today. She is always so interested in what we are doing and does her homework.

“2015 will be a very busy year for us and we are delighted that we have been able to launch the official celebrations with such a high profile visit.”

The Duchess unveiled a plaque to mark the visit and was given a posie of flowers by young carer Tessa-Louise Haines.

The Duchess and young carer Jaret Wrintmore then cut an anniversary cake, with Camilla saying: “That wasn’t a very elegant slice but we can blame the ribbon for getting in the way.”

After receiving a gift from 12-year-old Jaret, who won the charity’s competition to design an emblem for its half century celebrations, she said: “I give my congratulations to Community First on their 50th anniversary.

“The charity helps such a diverse amount of people across Wiltshire.

“The volunteers do great work and, as I always say, without them the country would come to a standstill.”

Devizes Mayor Sarah Bridewell, who also attended the opening, said: “I was the first time meeting her and she was lovely. It was great that she made time to speak to everyone.”

The Duchess has been patron of Community First since 2009, having previously been an active patron of Youth Action Wiltshire since 2005 before the merger of the two charities.

Along with visiting Community First the Duchess also went Dents Fine Accessories in Warminster this morning as part of her visit.