A CHARITY focused on supporting people affected by suicide was invited for an exclusive tour of the King’s private residence recently.

Sunflowers Suicide Support, based in Stonehouse, were given a free 90-minute tour of Highgrove Gardens in Doughton near Tetbury in honour of World Mental Health Day.

This was followed by a luxury cream tea in a private room at Highgrove.

Sunflowers Suicide Support offers a range of services, including counselling, support groups and outreach programmes, all aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding suicide and supporting those affected by it.

A group of staff, trustees, volunteers and service-users attended the event, with a spokesperson for the charity commenting that the gardens offered ‘the perfect serene environment’ to mark World Mental Health Day.

One attendee said: “It was the first day since I lost my daughter 32 weeks ago when I can honestly say I found some comfort and head-rest.

“It was a privilege to be invited.”

Highgrove is the private residence of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Though the house is not open to the public, Highgrove Gardens are available to visit every year between April and October.

The garden tour, which covered Highgrove’s diverse landscapes, allowed attendees to take in sights including rare plants, water features and flowerbeds.

Abbie Warren, chief executive and founder of Sunflowers Suicide Support, said: “We are truly honoured to have been welcomed into Highgrove Gardens on this significant day.

“For many of our service-users, volunteers and staff, this experience offered a peaceful space for healing, reflection and connection with others.

“Mental health awareness is at the core of our mission, and the day was a reminder of the importance of taking time to nurture our mental and emotional wellbeing.”