A sea of Union flags greeted the Countess of Wessex as she visited Cobham yesterday for the dedication of the Riverhill regeneration project.

The project by the Cobham Conservation and Heritage Trust (CCHT), which was completed last year, saw the bank alongside the River Mole transformed into a relaxing haven for families to enjoy.

Stepping out of her car, Her Royal Highness was greeted by rapturous applause as Sir Gerry Acher, chairman of CCHT, introduced her to those involved in the regeneration project.

Before unveiling an information board explaining the project, which was the CCHT’s contribution to the 2012 diamond jubilee celebrations, a blessing was given.

In true Cobham style, 21 plastic ducks decorated by Cobham schoolchildren and marked with names of members of the royal family, were released along the River Mole for a small race.

Prince Andrew was the first duck to cross the finish line and was presented to Her Royal Highness as a souvenir, along with two ducks named after her children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn.

After a short visit to Cobham Mill, Her Royal Highness joined members of the community at Tilt Green for a celebratory gathering and tea party.

From maypole dancing from pupils at St Matthew's School, Downside, to music from the Cobham Band, which Her Royal Highness stepped in to conduct, the visit ended on a high as the sun shone down.

Gerry Acher, chairman of the CCHT, said: "We were thrilled that Her Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex came and spent the afternoon in Cobham. It is the first royal visit to the community of Cobham in anyone’s living memory.

"It is a wonderful endorsement for everything we strive to achieve."

David Tipping, vice-chairman of the CCHT, said: "It was a fantastic day. A lot of work has gone in to this project and we grateful for all Gerry Acher [chairman of CCHT] and the volunteers have done.

"Having Her Royal Highness here makes us feel as though we are recognised as a fairly powerful force in Cobham and this is great for Cobham."

Councillor Mike Bennison, representing Cobham and Downside, also spoke highly of the day.

He said: "The regeneration is something that is very close to my heart because when I became a councillor in 2000, I was determined to get the river bank improved but I had to spend many meetings with officers and I didn’t get very far with it.

"To my delight, the Cobham Conservation and Heritage Trust have come along and created a dream for me. It is better than I could have ever imagined.

"It is unbelievable for the royal family to come here. I know it is the most beautiful village in Britain but it is a real privilege to have Her Royal Highness come along and see the beauty of it."