THERE WERE no red carpets in Flankers yesterday for His Royal Highness, Prince Philip. However, the community was at its best as it showcased its finest quality in art, craft and culture to the Duke, who toured the Flankers Primary and Junior High schools as a part of the royal visit to Jamaica.
"This visit means a lot to us as it gives us an opportunity to meet royalty," said Grade 7 student Kay-Ann Johnson, who was all smiles as she spoke to The Gleaner. "In addition, this gives us a chance to show off our talent and highlight our school."
Prince Philip paused to listen the melodious native ballads sung by the students before meeting principal Hugh Miller, Chamber of Commerce President Mark Kerr-Jarrett and other dignitaries for a tour of the school. Prince Philip was exposed to a mixture of art, craft, fine cuisine and technology. He stopped briefly at a beautifully decorated booth which displayed art, craft and food items. He also observed work in the new computer room.
"We mounted this exhibition today because we want to show that we have a lot of talent in this community," said Baldwin Dulstan, a vice-president of the Flankers Development Action Committee (FLANCODAC), which joined with other community groups to set up the booth. "We have art, craft, food preserves, knitted items, leather craft and just about everything you would find at a craft centre."
The Duke spoke with teachers and students during his tour.
"Welcome to Flankers, Sir, but next time you must bring the Queen along," shouted a man sitting on a wall. "We love her (The Queen) because a she mek dem fix up we road."
