Her tour of the town began with a stop-off at the 20th anniversary celebrations at the County Enterprise Foods factory on Dukeries Way - the largest supplier of community meals in Notts.

It was followed by a visit to officially open Worksop College's new £2 million boarding house for girls - Gibbs House.

The five-month pregnant Countess, who is expecting her second child, looked radiant in a red dress and at ease as she greeted workers, pupils and official dignitaries.

"It was an honour and a privilege to meet HRH the Countess of Wessex," said Bassetlaw Council chairman Wendy Quigley. "She was very charming and it was a pleasure to help celebrate the 20th anniversary of County Enterprise Foods. Such businesses are the heartbeat of Bassetlaw."

"The Countess was also in town to open the new boarding house for girls at Worksop College and I am always delighted to recognise investment in the education of children," she added.

After greeting staff and taking a tour of the factory, the Countess unveiled a special plaque to guests - marking 20 years since the premises first opened in 1987.

Workers - both past and present - then got stuck into an afternoon party, complete with a hog roast and disco.

For a full report and picture spread see Friday's Worksop Guardian.