Saint John campaigns for Royal visit

The City of Saint John is hoping to land a royal visit from Prince William and Kate Middleton, if they come to Canada this July.

The British tabloid The Sun reportedMonday the pair will visit Canada three months after their April 29 wedding, although there has been no confirmation from anyone associated with the Royal Family.

Saint John Cultural Affairs officer Bernie Cormier said he's drafting a letter that will point out the city's history as the first incorporated city of Canada and a city formed by Loyalists who were loyal to the Crown after the American revolution.

Cormier has vivid memories ofPrince William'sparents, Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, coming to the port city in 1983 and attracting thousands of eager spectators.

"When they came here, Diana was at the peak of her popularity. It was really their first official visit to Canada," said Cormier. "She was born on Canada Day, she was beautiful and young and they were newly married."

Cormier said he will send theletter toGov. Gen. David Johnston and New Brunswick's Lt.-Gov. Graydon Nicholas as well as Premier David Alward.

He suspects municipalities across Canada will be doing similar things to get the Royal Family's attention.