Bella Bella locals ‘excited’ for royal visit

Residents of Bella Bella in British Columbia are “excited” for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s visit next month.
Harvey Humchitt, the Research Liaison Coordinator in the remote Canadian town, has said the royal couple are likely to take a flight over the uncultivated land before making a trip to the local school when they arrive on September 26.
Harvey said it will be a “once in a lifetime” opportunity for the local people to show the royals their culture.
He told Canada’s Metro: We’ve never really had any Royal visitors in Bella Bella.
“A lot of our people believe this happens once in a lifetime.
“It will be good to showcase our culture and the way we live in Bella Bella.”
Preparations are underway for Prince William and Duchess Catherine’s visit, but the Chief Councillor of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council, Marilyn Slett, said they are still coordinating a tour of the area.
She said: “They’re still working on the final outline of their whole tour.
“but one of the things we’d like to do is showcase our beautiful community and Heiltsuk traditional territories.
“We have a strong and vibrant culture we’ll share with the Royal family.”
Marilyn also said Bella Bella will reap the benefits of hosting the British royals as it will be beneficial for tourism.
She said: The visit is symbolic of the reconciliation agenda.
“We think this visit is one way to meet and learn about the indigenous community; that’s part of reconciliation.”