A ROYAL visitor will be officially opening Bromsgrove's new joint police and fire station on Thursday, (October 30).

The joint emergency services station, described as the first of its kind nationally to combine a police and fire station, is being opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra - The Queen's cousin.

Bromsgrove firefighters and West Mercia Police moved into the School Drive facility in April, when it became operational.

Construction work on the emergency hub, replacing Bromsgrove Police Station in The Crescent, and the Windsor Street-based Fire Station, began in October 2012.

The public are being invited to the opening and will be able to see HRH arriving outside the building at around 2pm.

The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Holcroft, will be waiting to greet the princess along with local dignitaries.

Chief fire officer Mark Yates, chairman of the Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor Derek Prodger, Chief Constable David Shaw and Police and Crime Commissioner Bill Longmore will be among those in attendance.

HRH will tour the new facility meeting firefighters, viewing fire engines and equipment, then touring the police station and meeting those involved in youth engagement and cadet activities.

The occasion will be commemorated with the unveiling of a plaque.