King Charles visited the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust allotment site in Newtownards.

The visit occurred as the site marked its 20th anniversary.

The allotments sit near Scrabo Tower.

The Trust established the allotments through its Staff Health and Wellbeing team to support staff connection with nature.

King Charles spoke with staff and their families during a tour of the site.

Ards Outpatient Nursing Assistant Lesley McCrum stated that the allotments provide an outlet for staff and families.

McCrum noted that she and her husband Ian began work on their plot a year ago and that the site now supports social connections.

Trust Staff Health and Wellbeing Coordinator Will Moore stated that the allotments deliver physical and mental health benefits.

Moore added that the site allows people to relax and unwind.