So it was no different when Princess Grace of Monaco visited Knutsford in 1980 for a poetry and prose recital.

It is an occasion that the then Guardian photographer Eddie Fuller remembers well.

"She had that charisma that all genuine stars have," he said. "She was relaxed, yet awe-inspiring."

The elegant Hollywood actress, who was paid £400 for her performance, had been invited to Tatton Park on February 24 to give a recital with British actor Richard Pasco.

The £10 tickets had sold out in October.

For her visit, the princess had asked for a selection of daffodils to be placed on and around the stage and the yellow flowers to be mixed with blood-red iresines.

It was one of head gardener Sam Youd's first jobs.

"When I was interviewed they said they needed someone because they had a really special person coming and it was going to be a busy time," he said.

Strict security had been enforced to protect the princess against a possible terrorist attack.

Police were out in force in the park before her arrival by car at the main entrance to the hall.

During her short recital, Birds, Beasts and Flowers, her 300-strong audience of mainly women fell silent.

"She just commanded their attention," said Eddie, who has photographed countless royals during his 40-year career.

"And it was definitely a highlight for me."

Grace Kelly, as she was known, soared to fame in the 1950's with such enduring classics as High Society, To Catch A Thief and Rear Window.

She gave up acting at the height of her popularity to marry Princess Rainier of Monaco in 1956.

But two years after her appearance at Tatton, she was killed in a car crash in Monaco. Her daughter Stephanie was seriously injured.