Doreen Foster, the Director of Warwick Arts Centre, was invited to a garden party with a difference back in May. This particular event just so happened to be at Buckingham Palace, with both King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance!

Doreen took Beth Byrne (Creative Director at the Arts Centre) along with her - we caught up with both of them to find out more about this very special day...

Tell us about your visit - what was the reason for your invitation?

Doreen: I was invited by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) as Director of Warwick Arts Centre for our work in the Creative Industries sector.

There were approximately 4,000 cultural leaders from organisations across the UK from the world of music, visual arts, film and TV, fashion, theatre and dance, and it was great to see strong representation from the Midlands.

Above: Doreen and Beth smile outside Buckingham Palace

Above: Beefeaters at the garden party, held within Buckingham Palace

Did you meet any members of the royal family?

Beth: The royal party - which included the King and Queen - passed us in the line-up, but unfortunately we didn't get to meet them personally.

What was your favourite part of the day?

Beth: It was great to be part of a celebration recognising the contribution that the creative sector makes to the UK. Also, I enjoyed hearing the palace band play ABBA as we made our exit!