King Charles created a stir during a visit to a community hub in Newtownards, Co Down, when he turned his hand to baking a 'VIP dessert' for people who rely on the centre for hot meals. The King was accompanied by the Queen on the tour of the Warehouse centre, a former pub repurposed as a volunteer-supported facility providing free food supplies and meals.
Royal Baking Session
Charles helped out in the kitchen by stirring up a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. While the King was on baking duty, Camilla learned about the hub's 'blind date with a book' initiative, which encourages people to try new genres by wrapping books in paper so no one knows the title until opened.
Operations manager Megan Weimann described the day as nerve-wracking but said the royal couple were lovely and friendly. 'They were really excited to hear about everything we were doing and wanted to engage with our volunteers,' she added. She praised the King's baking talents, noting the cake would be the 'VIP dessert' served the next day.
Community Impact
Head chef Dawn Stewart gave Charles tips as he whisked the cake mix and was impressed with his mixing. 'It's quite overwhelming,' she said. 'I'm just so delighted that a wee place in Newtownards gets recognition from the King for all we do for the community.' The royal couple also embarked on an impromptu walkabout among cheering crowds before departing.
