The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge stopped by at St Luke’s Community Centre in Central Street, Finsbury, for an international-themed lunch this afternoon.

Islington Gazette: The Duchess of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA WireThe Duchess of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

It was part of the “Big Lunch” initiative, which encourages people to sit down to a meal with members of their community once a year.

It was the Kate’s last royal engagement before going on maternity leave: her third child is due in April.

Islington Gazette: The Duke of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA WireThe Duke of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

Chef Matt Jones, 45, who has been at the centre for several years, said: “It was fantastic – the opportunity to meet people of their influence.

“As we got them to decorate our dishes, Kate said she cooked with her kids but that it sometimes got a bit messy. That’s why I prefer teaching adults.”

Islington Gazette: The Duchess of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA WireThe Duchess of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

Referring to a recipe for butter chicken that the royal pair handed over to staff, he added: “I’m very intrigued about their recipe.”

Community centre member Sakaina Buhari, from Sierra Leone, said: “I’m very happy to see them come down to share things with us. We love it.”

Islington Gazette: The Duke of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA WireThe Duke of Cambridge taking part in preparations for a Commonwealth Big Lunch at St Luke's Community Centre. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

Angela Dooley, 43, who works in the kitchen, added: “It’s just really nice that they’ve come. It was amazing, everyone was looking forward to it.

“We’re all excited to cook the recipe they brought.”

Islington Gazette: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at St Luke's Community Centre this afternoon. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA WireThe Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at St Luke's Community Centre this afternoon. Picture: Paul Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

In the centre’s cafe, William and Kate were briefed on the work of St Luke’s.

It has a fully equipped cooking school and runs community classes on healthy home cooking and avoiding food waste.

Report by Press Association