Bakery 'deeply honoured' following royal visit

Princess Anne visited several organisations in the town during a royal visit on Wednesday

The founder of an organisation that supports vulnerable women said she was "deeply honoured" to welcome The Princess Royal.

Princess Anne visited The Good Loaf in Northampton on Wednesday to mark the work they do supporting people in the community.

The Good Loaf offers job opportunities to vulnerable women and those involved in the criminal justice system, and recently celebrated its tenth anniversary.

Suzy van Rooyen, founder, said Princess Anne heard "inspiring stories" about how the initiative is "changing lives".

"Her visit shines a light on the strength and determination of the women we support and the incredible community that stands behind them," she said.

Ms Rooyen said Princess Anne toured the bakery's kitchen and café and concluded the visit with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.

Princess Anne's visit to the Good Loaf ended with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque

The Princess Royal also visited the Bridge Substance Misuse Programme, which helps people recover from addiction.

The service operates in Northampton, Wellingborough and Corby and recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

Steve Carroll, service director, said The Princess Royal met with staff, volunteers and service users.

"She spent just under an hour with us was really chatty and interested in what we do," he said.

"I was quite lucky enough to escort her around the building and introduce her to different people.

"She was very knowledgeable on the subject of misuse and had loads of ideas to help us improve."

Mr Carroll said one member of staff found the royal visit to be "a very surreal experience" that they all could "share together".