The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge make their first visit to Keswick today – and will be welcomed by some remarkable people.

Among those the royal couple will be meeting are representatives of good causes operating across the county thanks to the efforts of volunteers.

They have been nominated by Cumbria Community Foundation, which funds many of these groups. The foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and chief executive Andy Beeforth says today’s royal visit is the highlight of the year so far.

He says: “We’ll be welcoming the Duke and Duchess with some of the most selfless people from communities around Cumbria.

“One thing that makes us different to other places is the way that people look at an issue, have an idea and set about fixing it.”

So William and Kate will meet Keswick Mountain Rescuers, whose expertise in swift water rescue was invaluable during the floods, and volunteers from Keswick Flood Action Group.

They will also meet Rachel Holliday, who set up the Calderwood House homeless hostel in Egremont and new women’s centre Women out West.

He adds: “Their Royal Highnesses will meet representatives from the Howgill Family Centre, an essential community resource offering a huge amount of support to families in west Cumbria.

“And perhaps one of the most inspiring projects is We Will, a group of teenagers from Maryport who are providing youth mental health first aid.

“I am grateful to have the opportunity to shine a light on some of those by introducing some really remarkable Cumbrians to the Duke and Duchess.”

Vanessa Metcalfe, tourism manager with Keswick Tourism Association, says the town is busy from Easter onwards with tourists and visitors – but expects today to be much busier.

The time of William and Kate’s arrival hasn’t been revealed, but she says: “I’ve had numerous phone calls from people wanting to know what time they’re coming.

“There have been calls from the Borders, Carlisle and the South Lakes. People from all over the area are interested.”

She predicts: “It will bring quite a few people into the town today. And I don’t think the weather will make a difference. If people want to see the royal family they’ll come whether it rains or not.”

She sees a double benefit to the town from today’s visit. “If people are here for the day they are not just going to come and see the royals and go. They will have a look round the shops and have something to eat.

“And it’s going to be reported nationally, so it’s great marketing for the town.”