THE East Dorset Sailing Club (EDSC) will receive a Royal visitor next week.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal will visit the club’s Sandbanks base on May 13, accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset.

As President of the RYA (Royal Yachting Association), Her Royal Highness will officially mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of the club, which is both the smallest and the oldest sailing club in continuous existence in Poole Harbour.

“EDSC was established by a handful of local yachtsmen in 1875 following negotiations with a local landowner,” a spokesperson said.

“It is notable for its iconic long wooden pier that sticks out into Whitely Lake in Poole Harbour at the bottom of Evening Hill on Sandbanks Road.

“Her Royal Highness will be shown the club’s original plans and photos on display in the new history corner of the clubhouse which has a panoramic view of Brownsea Island.

“She will also meet club officials and VIP guests and will be re-acquainted with Alison Wheeler, founder of EDSC’s Pirates section for six to 12 year olds.”

Elsewhere, the EDSC Pirates will be out on the water demonstrating their sailing skills, with the visit culminating in Her Royal Highness unveiling a plaque commemorating the anniversary and her visit.