In addition to Mark, also present were many people who have supported the Royal School by donating to appeals, participating in sponsored events, providing work placements for students or working as volunteers. Mark and fellow Guest of Honour William Roache MBE, who has starred in TV soap Coronation Street as Ken Barlow for nearly 50 years, had the opportunity of thanking the volunteers for all their efforts.
The Royal School for the Deaf & Communication Disorders is a charity which provides education and year-long residential care for children and teenagers with complex communication difficulties. Although originally the school cared for children who were deaf, their students are now people with profound and multiple disabilities which make it very difficult for them to communicate.
As part of 'The Big Thank You' event, residents of Griffin Lodge, the adult residential home operated by the RSDCD, performed songs alongside members of staff.
During his visit, Mr Hunter toured the school to view their newest facilities and met with Principle and Chief Executive Hilary Ward, as well as Christopher Lees-Jones, Chairman of the RSDCD.
Speaking after the visit, Mr Hunter said "The staff here do brilliant work helping these really amazing young people - to overcome the difficulties caused by profound communication disorder is a great achievement. Our community can be extremely proud of the work being done here at the Royal School for the Deaf & Communication Disorders, and I would encourage everyone continue to support them however they can".
