THE Prince and Princess of Wales surprised volunteers at a Windsor foodbank after secretly asking the charity's manager to host their visit.

Volunteers at Windsor Foodshare were only told one hour prior to the royals' visit.

Many were left shocked after turning up to help pack the day's food parcels - and instead being greeted by the press.

"We knew absolutely nothing," explained volunteer Emma Pilbrow. 

"I would have put make-up on this morning if I had known.

"What amazing people they are. It is nice to know they care about the community where they live."

The royal's visit comes as the cost of living crisis has seen Windsor Foodshare's demand go up by nearly 20 per cent in the last year.

A total of 48 regular volunteers now work hard each week to meet demand. 

In a discussion with the manager of Foodshare Sarah Kembar and Reverend Matthew Scott of the Dedworth Green Baptist Church, the royals heard about the vital need for the foodbank in Windsor.

Slough Observer:

The Princess of Wales shared her concerns at how the cost of living crisis was stretching family incomes across the country with members of the Foodshare.

She said: "With the cost of living crisis, there are a lot of desperate people out there."

The royal described the crucial work the foodshare does saying how foodbanks are a "lifeline to so many people".

Set to mark its 10th anniversary later this year, Windsor Foodshare provides short-term weekly help to local vulnerable people.

This help comes in the form of food parcels containing the likes of bread, eggs, fresh fruit and vegetables.

Prince William was tasked with putting a parcel together for a family of four, while Kate was initially tasked with sorting donations - the pair later switched roles.

Sarah said: "They were such a lovely couple, down to earth and friendly and really put us at ease."Slough Observer:

"When we get donations in we sort items, because obviously you have to check the dates and put them into their categories - it is really important that we don't waste any food."

Sarah said that Prince William's packing was "very neat".

The royal's competitive sides came out during the visit, with the pair seeing who was the best packer and who was doing the most work.

Towards the end of the visit, Prince William said he would like to return to the Foodshare at a later date.

Sarah said: "They are welcome back any time, we are always grateful for a pair of hands."

In 2013 the foodbank was established after the Maidenhead branch saw regular Windsor users - this propelled Dedworth Green Baptist Church into action and the Windsor Foodshare was established.

Since then, demand has risen year on year, with 7,281 people being supported last year.

Windsor Foodshare gives out food vouchers at the church between 1pm and 3pm every Thursday, and between 6pm and 7pm the same day at Kerith Community Church.