Careers for women in the construction and engineering industry were given a boost this week with royal approval for a 'ground-breaking' initiative.

Princess Anne, on a one-day visit to Northern Ireland, visited the W5 facility in Belfast's Odyssey complex and was guest of honour at an event to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Women into Science and Engineering (WISE) Campaign.

She heard how the WISE Campaign was founded in 1984 by Baroness Platt of Writtle and collaborates with industry and education to encourage girls of school age to continue studying maths and science.

Its aim is for girls to continue into related careers such as those available in the engineering and construction industries.

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Her Royal Highness was formally greeted on arrival at W5 by Commander Keith Cochrane, Vice-Lord Lieutenant of the County Borough of Belfast.

She went on to meet Annette Williams, Chair of WISE, Terry Marsh Executive Director WISE.

She also met Dr Sally Montgomery, Chief Executive of the W5 Odyssey complex.

Later, in the lecture theatre, over 120 invited guests, including around 70 Brownies from across Northern Ireland, welcomed The Princess Royal to the event.

Princess Anne is familiar with the organisation's work. She is the royal patron of WISE, and in that capacity, presented certificates of recognition on behalf of the organisation to new industry partners, east Belfast's Thales Group and Centrica Northern Ireland.

Addressing the delegates, Her Royal Highness spoke of the work of the organisation and of the need for women in careers such as engineering and in construction.

Later, Her Royal Highness, accompanied by Dr Montgomery and Mrs Marsh, went on to visit the recently opened 'Wind, Wings and Waves' exhibition and had the opportunity to meet Brownies and their leaders.

See: Busy Day For Princess Anne

See: WISE

(BMcC/JM)