A CHARITY in Birchwood has had a royal visit as it marks its 10th birthday in its current home.

Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, paid a visit to the Brainwave Centre on Dewhurst Road on Tuesday, October 8.

Her Royal Highness’ stop at the charity’s north west base coincided with celebrations to mark 10 years since the opening of the centre.

First setting up at Birchwood One Business Park in 2009, Brainwave has helped countless children with disabilities to achieve greater levels of independence in the decade since through a range of physical and educational therapies.

Brainwave’s long-serving president, the countess also handed out a pair of special awards during her visit this week.

She presented fundraiser Natalie Preston with a certificate of appointment as an ambassador of the charity.

Warrington Guardian:

Natalie has cerebral palsy and has been attending the Brainwave Centre since she was two years old, but climbed over the O2 Arena with popstar Olly Murs in May in order to raise more than £18,000 for the organisation.

And the Countess also presented the charity’s former chief executive with a certificate of outstanding service.

Phil Edge recently announced his retirement after 33 years with Brainwave – spending many years working as a physiotherapist.

But he now feels it is ‘time to pass on the baton’, and a new chief executive will be appointed in the New Year.

Warrington Guardian:

Richard Adams, a member of Brainwave’s board of trustees, said: “Phil has been with us since the birth of the charity.

“I’m sure he has Brainwave running through his veins.

“He has had such an outstanding career here and has helped countless children and their families.

“We know it has been a difficult decision for Phil to leave Brainwave, but we are so proud of what he has achieved, and we are pleased that the Countess is here to recognise his outstanding tenure.”