A high-ranking British dignitary from London is to visit Mercer Island High School this week to extend a hand of friendship — and help them ‘tune up’ for a momentous overseas visit.

Catherine Longworth and her consort, John Longworth, are heading to meet members of the Mercer Island High School marching band preparing to travel to the UK to participate in one of the world’s great street spectaculars — the New Year’s Day Parade.

Longworth, a principal patron of the parade, is an appointed International Goodwill Ambassador, and having served as Lord Mayor, has been selected to represent the Mayoralty of the City of Westminster, which hosts the event, at the ceremony.

Longworth is a senior member of the governing Conservative Party.

The parade at the UK capital will be celebrating its 25th anniversary when the band appears on Jan. 1, 2011.

Local TV networks will be offered full comprehensive coverage of the event via satellite free of charge enabling parents, supporters and proud members of the community to see the historic performance.