THE Earl and Countess of Wessex saw how youngsters are helping to put their city on the map during a visit to Sunderland yesterday.
The Royal couple began their visit by calling at Monkwearmouth School, which is nationally recognised as a centre of excellence for performing arts.
They met staff and students, toured the building, saw a range of arts and listened to the highly-regarded school orchestra.
Prince Edward and his wife, Sophie, were also treated to a preview of an original drama production by year nine students, focusing on the history of Monkwearmouth.
The couple went on to open the Citizen You event, involving more than 200 young people from 52 Commonwealth countries at Sunderland University.
Organised by the Commonwealth Youth Exchange Council, it is aimed at encouraging young people to explore their views on citizenship, share ideas and promote citizenship in their home communities.
The couple went on to hear about Sunderland's regeneration at the National Glass Centre, and rounded off their visit at a dinner hosted by Sunderland City Council, at the Stadium of Light.
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