A SOUTHAMPTON baker who used to work for the royal family is sharing her top baking tips ahead of the coronation.

Ally Molyneaux from CommuniBakes on St James Road is a former staff member who worked for the royals at Kensington Palace.

Ahead of the coronation, she is sharing her top tips to help those who are baking some sweet treats next month.

Ally said: "Many of us have never celebrated a royal coronation in our lifetime and with King Charles III’s coronation taking place on May 6, we thought we’d put together some top tips for creating a cake fit for a King.

“Though we can’t promise King Charles III will get to try your cake, it will be great to serve it up if you’re planning a street party or celebration for the occasion.

Daily Echo: Ally Molyneaux from CommuniBakes with the team.Ally Molyneaux from CommuniBakes with the team. (Image: CommuniBakes)

"It’s always a good idea to keep things simple when it comes to baking.

"If you overcomplicate things, you’ll be in danger of them going wrong.

"Why not opt for a classic Victoria sponge as a nod to previous royalty or go for a lemon drizzle. Something chocolatey always goes down a treat too.

“If you’d rather do something smaller, you could have a go at baking cupcakes or tray bakes, as these always hit the sweet spot and people will be able to help themselves to individual portions.

“A tray bake with fruit arranged into the Union flag is always a popular one too. Don’t forget decorative flourishes on your cake – you could use edible flowers or purchase coronation-themed cake toppers to really give it a wow factor."

Communibakes is a bakery that helps raise funds for the Southampton charity Communicare, which aims to tackle loneliness in the city.

All profits from the bakes sold go towards the charity and the work it does to help lonely and isolated people across Southampton.