YOUNGSTERS in West?Devon had a royal appointment on Monday when the Earl of Wessex visited Roadford Lake to receive the new Jubilee Sundial on behalf of the Queen.

The county of Devon commemorated the Queen's Diamond Jubilee with a striking 6-metre stainless steel sundial at the lake and the Earl came to accept the gift.

Director of South West Lakes Trust Evelyn Stacey escorted him to the sundial where he was greeted by Lifton Sea Scouts, guides and conservation volunteers. The Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, Eric Dancer, presented groups involved in the creation of the sundial, including the High Sheriff of Devon, Robin Barlow, Vice Lord Lieutenant, Sir John Cave accompanied by a number of donors, representatives from Babcock, who planned and executed the piece, and Midas who undertook the ground works.

A dedication prayer was given by the Archdeacon of Plymouth, the Ven Ian Chandler.

The Earl formally received the gift on behalf of the Queen by unveiling a plaque which was covered by the Devon flag.

En route back to the Lakeside Visitor Centre he was greeted by a group of school children from Lew Trenchard Primary School.

The Earl cut a celebratory cake and was presented with a hamper full of Devon produce.

The six stainless steel pieces represent the six decades of the Queen's reign and are surrounded by granite time-pieces.