BLACKBURN was graced by royalty when a princess from Saudi Arabia flew thousands of miles to congratulate the achievements of an all-girls school.

Her Royal Highness, HRS, Princess Lolowah Al-Faisal accepted an invite from bosses at Tauheedul Islam Girls High School to the annual presentation awards ceremony.

The princess, who was accompanied by a modest entourage of four staff, took to the stage and gave a lengthy speech to offer words of wisdom for the girls and offer words of wisdom for the future.

She shook the hands of every pupil who attended the King George’s Hall on Thursday evening as they were given their certifcate and year book.

HRH Al-Faisal, who flew back to Saudi Arabia yesterday following the flying visit, said: “I am truly delighted to be here at this prestigious event. This excellent centre of learning could not exist without the excellent achievement of it students. It is a legacy to which all young women can aspire.”

The princess from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has gained worldwide recognition for her passion for education, in particular educating women. She is the Vice Chair of Board of Trustees of Effat College - the first private school for girls in Saudi Arabia.

Beause of this work, Tauheedul wrote to the Princess to invite her along - and were stunned and delighted when she took up the offer.

On the night, the princess was given a special award, the Ummah award, for her commitment to learning and pushing boundaries.

She said: “I thank everyone who has chosen me for this award which I don’t deserve. I will accept this on behalf of my mother who truly deserves this.”

Moulana Munir Ali, associate principal, told her: “On behalf of the people in Blackburn in general and in particular on behalf of students, staff, parents and governors I would like to extend my welcome to Her Royal Highness."

Tauheedul was celebrating its best ever exam results, with 98 per cent of pupils achieveing five GCSEs at A* to C, including English and Maths. It is the top-performing school in Blackburn and was rated outstanding by Ofsted.