Charles and Camilla visited a bakery in Northern Ireland today, and when Prince Charles was asked to cut a special giant cake, he surprised his hosts by using the ceremonial sword of a local dignitary for the task.

He then raised a further laugh by using the edge of the table to wipe the icing off.

Chairman of the bakery, Brian Irwin, said he spoke at length with the Royal visitors, who showed a particular interest in traditional Northern Ireland produce such as soda farls.

When asked about the cake-cutting ceremony, Mr Irwin replied: “It was a surprise. His Royal Highness eyed up the Lord Lieutenant’s sword and asked ‘Can I borrow that?’ Now we know the royal way to cut a cake.”