His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will officially open the new £8.2 million stand at Trent Bridge on the first day of the npower Test against New Zealand.

The Royal visit is the first since His Royal Highness accompanied HM The Queen on a tour of the ground to mark her Silver Jubilee celebrations in 1977.

Notts CCC Chief Executive Derek Brewer welcomed the news which follows on fast from the announcement that Trent Bridge would be one of three host venues for the ICC World Twenty20 Championship in 2009.

“We are absolutely delighted that His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will be joining us on 5th June which promises to be a momentous day,” said Derek.

“It is so pleasing to hear that the royal visit has been confirmed and it should serve as another great boost for the region.

“The planning of the itinerary is at a very early stage but given his love of cricket, we hope that His Royal Highness is looking forward to visiting our refurbished venue.”

Rushcliffe Borough Council Chief Executive Allen Graham helped the club to secure the visit and will also attend the opening ceremony.

“It is exciting news that His Royal Highness will be visiting Rushcliffe at a time of celebration of the wonderful ground improvements at Trent Bridge which will benefit the region for years to come,” said Allen.

“This visit is wonderful recognition of the partnership approach shared by the public sector and Notts County Cricket Club and an occasion that all residents of Rushcliffe can be proud of.”