Sophie Countess of Wessex makes surprise visit to local pub

Sophie, The Countess of Wessex made an unexpected visit to a local pub today, taking patrons by surprise.

The 55-year-old joined other members of the Bagshot Women's Institute for a catch up down at the Half Moon pub in Surrey, UK just days after it reopened following the coronavirus outbreak.

Members of the group, which Sophie became a part of in 2007, had been keeping in touch during lockdowns via video calls but have started having small socially-distant gatherings in person.

The mum-of-two looked chic for the girls' catch up in a dusty pink skirt paired with tan wedges, a plum knit and a delicate necklace.

In the beer-garden, sitting around a glass table with a fire feature in the centre, the women talked about their efforts during the coronavirus crisis.

Some sewing PPE and scrub bags for the local hospital, Frimley Park, where Sophie gave birth to both her children.

While others had been baking for key workers, such as the local fire service.

The Countess also met with guests in the pub as well as the Half Moon's owners and staff.

The royal heard about the challenges they faced with reopening the premises in line with the new guidelines for pubs and restaurants.

They also spoke about their efforts delivering food to those unable to leave their homes, frontline workers or those self-isolating during lockdown.

Three generations of the Sturt family are currently involved in the pub's day-to-day running - Conrad his mum Helga and young Jamie - with the business having been in the family since 1909.