The Duchess of Cornwall popped into an East End pensioners’ lunch club in Bethnal Green bearing a Christmas gift and tucking into a square meal.
She joined the dinner table at the Russia Lane day centre behind Cambridge Heath Road to learn how it helps tackle social isolation among the elderly.
Camilla saw kitchen staff preparing lunch and presented them with a special Christmas cake for the club.
The Duchess also saw Tower Hamlets’ Meals On Wheels in action that helps older people continue living independently in their own homes and met some of the delivery drivers who provide safety and wellness checks as well as a nutritious meal to those living alone.
Mayor John Biggs said: “Tackling loneliness and social isolation are now priorities for the council. Places like Russia Lane make sure older people keep their independence.”
The Duchess was greeted at the day centre by Tower Hamlets Council’s recently-appointed pensioners’ champion, Cllr Denise Jones, who is in her 70s herself.
Yesterday’s flying Royal visit was part of Camilla’s work in tackling isolation and seclusion by encouraging older generations to keep fit, active and engaged.
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