DAME Helen Ghosh, director general of the National Trust, took time out of her busy schedule to visit Knutsford and do 'Canute's Crossing' in some style.

"I met Helen at the national launch of Heritage Open Days at the RIBA in London and we were thrilled when she accepted our invitation to take visit the town," said Sarah Flannery, of the Knutsford Promenades Community Association.

"She really enjoyed hearing about how our Knutsford Heritage Open Days will celebrate 1,000 years of town history and tradition."

Dame Helen joined David Briggs, Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire who made the crossing at the same time.

Writing in the Legacy Book, Dame Helen said: "I loved my leap over the Lily and the chance to hear about all the wonderful events planned for Knutsford Heritage Open Days.

"Wonderful community spirit! Good luck."

David Briggs confessed that he had driven over the River Lily many times without realising its relevance to the Canute legend.

"I am delighted to have learnt where the Lily is and thrilled to have forded it on the 1,000th anniversary of King Canute's legendary crossing," he said.