PRINCESS Anne gave carers a Hallowe’en treat yesterday (October 31) by joining them for tea at Butlin’s in Minehead.

HRH The Princess Royal, president of the Carers Trust, laughed and chatted with 75 carers and their families as they carved pumpkins and learned circus skills during a respite date at the resort.

While she was there, she unveiled a plaque in recognition of the support given to the charity by Butlin’s, just six weeks after visiting Watchet to mark the 150th anniversary of the town's lighthouse. 

She said: “I want to thank Butlin’s for their continued support and long-term commitment to the Trust.

“Having Butlin’s as a champion of the carers’ cause is critical. It is not just about the fundraising, it is also for offering work experience to carers. The skills they can learn from Redcoats and other members of the team is invaluable. There is nothing quite like the personal touch.”

Julian Highfield, resort director, said: “This very special visit by The Princess Royal means a huge amount to the team here.

“Butlin’s has enjoyed working with the Carers Trust and is proud to have raised almost a quarter of a million pounds. We have also been fortunate to be able to offer some carers the opportunity to join us on work experience in a number of departments here on resort.”

Carers Trust ambassador Carole Cochrane said: “The Princess Royal is a very active president and having her support raises awareness for a charity supporting the six million carers in the UK.

“The carers invited to Butlins today have had a fantastic time, meeting the Princess, enjoying lunch and the resort’s facilities, a lovely day out which is something they don’t get very often.”

For more information about the trust, visit www.carers.org and www.youngcarers.net