An article by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall about The Big Lunch, The Sun

I am delighted to be Patron of The Big Jubilee Lunch — a simple idea from the Eden Project that encourages people to sit down for lunch with their neighbours for a day.

Being a friendly neighbour has always been the keystone of community life and just saying “hello” can sometimes make a huge difference. For some people, particularly the elderly or those who have to cope on their own, it can be a vital lifeline. Getting together to eat, to talk and to share experiences really does help. On Sunday, June 3, people across the UK and the Commonwealth are being encouraged to hold lunches as part of the Jubilee celebrations.

Street parties and picnics will unite the nation as neighbours, friends and family gather to celebrate over the Bank Holiday weekend. I am very much looking forward to joining a Big Jubilee Lunch in London and it would be wonderful if many of you were able to do the same in your own communities.

So why not take the plunge, knock on your neighbours’ doors and join in the fun?

It may seem daunting at first but the benefits for your community could be far-reaching. I hope you all enjoy your Big Jubilee Lunches — I certainly intend to!

www.thebiglunch.com