IT was the perfect spring day for The Countess of Wessex's visit to Hexham this afternoon.

The sun shone brightly and children from Hexham's Sele First School cheered to welcome the Countess as she arrived at Hexham Abbey to see the historic Abbey and Big Story exhibition. 

Greeted by the Mayor of Hexham Coun. Trevor Cessford and Canon Dagmar Winter, the Countess was given a tour of the Abbey where she met volunteers, members of the congregation and children taking part in art workshops. 

Her tour ended with a cup of tea and a scone in the great hall. 

Hexham was the final stop on her visit to Northumberland after visiting Amble and Blyth.