Overview

• The Prince and Princess of Wales toured the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service’s £50 million Learning and Development College near Cookstown, which opened in May and features a rare floodwater rescue simulator.
• They observed multiple training drills, attempted rescue line throws in the flood simulator without success, and took a brief ride in a fire engine as the princess joked about using the sirens and having the prince drive.
• NIFRS chief fire and rescue officer Aidan Jennings praised the visit as a proud day for the service and highlighted how the college’s scenario-based facilities are modernizing firefighter training.
• Later engagements included Mallon Farm in County Tyrone, where the couple learned about flax processing for sustainable linen, and Long Meadow Cider in County Armagh, where they viewed production and sampled fresh juice.
• This marked their first joint visit to Northern Ireland since October 2022, with the couple also meeting PSNI officers privately to offer thanks for their service.