The Duchess of Edinburgh Volunteers at The Lighthouse

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh joined the volunteer team at The Lighthouse in Barnsbury, Woking on Wednesday afternoon, 31^st January 2024.

The Lighthouse charity was hosting its weekly Tea & Cake for Senior Citizens, and participants were surprised and delighted to be greeted and served by The Duchess.

The weekly event draws many local residents who find belonging, friendship and fun at The Lighthouse branch, located in the heart of the Barnsbury housing estate on the southside of Woking. Wednesday’s event included tasty treats, a trivia quiz, knitting, and vibrant conversation.

The Duchess added much joy through her volunteering, serving tea and cake, playing quizmaster, and chatting with the guests. In addition, she helped sort donations for the community fridge and even joined in knitting the distinct woollen cosies that are used at The Lighthouse’s social enterprise coffeehouse, appropriately named ‘The Cosy’.

Anna Wright, Centre Manager at The Lighthouse, Barnsbury, said, “It was a brilliant afternoon and a highlight at the start of this year for our little community. The Duchess made everyone feel so special, showing interest and care to our guests, and rolling up her sleeves with the volunteer team.”

The Lighthouse buildings in central Woking and Barnsbury host a range of projects to support, encourage and empower those who find themselves in need or on the margins. The charity has around 300 volunteers, working together to tackle deprivation and isolation, transforming lives towards well-being, independence and hope. The Lighthouse includes well known services like the Woking Foodbank and the Jigsaw baby bank, as well as a clothing bank, debt advice, cooking classes, creative workshops, ‘The Cosy’ social enterprise coffeehouse, and much more.