CLIENTS of a Wiltshire homeless charity enjoyed a cuppa and a warm welcome when they were special guests at the King’s Highgrove home.

Chippenham-based Doorway was invited earlier this month to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Orchard Room at the estate just over the border near Tetbury as part of the Prince’s Foundation Winter Warmers scheme.

Charity chief executive Jo Kitching said: “We were really excited to be able to treat our guests to a day out – it was a rare opportunity to get together in a different environment and meet some new people.”

“The atmosphere there was lovely, the staff were so friendly and welcoming and the home-grown lunch was delicious.

"We were offered plenty of cups of tea, were entertained by a quiz and were able to browse in the shop afterwards. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

One of Doorway’s guests said afterwards: “I would never have seen this place if Doorway hadn’t brought us here. Thank you for a lovely day out.”

The aim of Winter Warmers is to address social isolation in the cost of living crisis and offer a friendly and inclusive atmosphere during a difficult time of year.

Last month the foundation said: “Hundreds of people at risk of loneliness and isolation in the communities around Highgrove Garden, Dumfries House and the Castle of Mey have enjoyed a warm, convivial space to find company and develop friendships, enjoy hot drinks and practise sociable activities like craft.

Doorway provides support for people who are homeless or at risk of losing the roof over their heads.

As well as providing urgent advice, it runs drop-in sessions with meals, laundry and shower facilities and contact with outreach workers from the council and other services.

Visit doorwayproject.org.uk for more information about the work it does.