PRINCE Edward visited south Essex to open a new £432,000 community safety centre at a fire station.

Edward, the Earl of Wessex, yesterday arrived at the Corringham station, in Fobbing Road, by car, after his helicopter landed at the nearby Pegasus social club, in Herd Lane.

He watched a display by young firefighters, and viewed an exhibition to persuade motorcyclists to take road safety more seriously.

The prince, who unveiled a plaque and chatted with members of the public, said: “It is a great pleasure for me to meet the team.

“This is a great initiative and an excellent way to get the fire service better known in the community, and I hope the response is positive.”

The project was funded by Essex fire service, with a donation of £292,000 from the Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation.

Corporation board member Sunny Crouch said: “We want to regenerate, and it’s not all about building. We want to enhance the lives of people in Thurrock.

“The exciting thing about this place is the work it does with young people. They love it here. The community centre is already being used by mother and toddler groups, and other community clubs.

“The station is at the heart of Corringham.”

Chief Fire Officer David Johnson said the station was “honoured” to welcome the prince.

He said: “The event is an illustration of how far the fire service has come in its community work, not only in its efforts to inform and educate people and reduce fires, but also in a number of unique initiatives.”

The prince was presented with gifts for his children, Lady Louise Windsor, five, and one-year-old Viscount Severn, by two members of Thurrock Youth Cabinet.