An international school in East Sussex has received royal recognition.

Staff and students were thrilled when the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester dropped in on the Pestalozzi International Village, Sedlescombe, Hastings, yesterday.

The Duke has been patron of the village, which offers education and accommodation to disadvantaged youngsters from different countries, for 30 years.

Staff and students greeted the Duke and Duchess when they arrived at noon.

They were met by Phyllida Stewart Roberts, the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, and presented with a cake.

Tibetan students gave the royal couple silk scarves and sang a song and all the students performed a traditional tune from Zimbabwe.

Patricia Rogers, director of the village, said she was delighted to see the couple.

She said: "The Duke has helped our work in educating disadvantaged, bright youngsters to fulfil their potential and serve their own communities."

The couple stayed for more than two hours looking around and talking to students.

Pestalozzi was founded in 1957, based on the beliefs of Swiss philosopher Johann Pestalozzi, a humanitarian and educator.

Its 26 students, who represent India, Nepal, Thailand, Tibetan communities, Zambia and Zimbabwe, study for an International Baccalaureate in conjunction with Hastings College of Arts and Technology and also work in the community.