King Charles to remain patron of Royal Academy of Culinary Arts

King Charles III is to continue to serve as patron of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA) following a review.

The King first became patron of the organisation in 2013 and has supported many of its events and initiatives over the past 11 years.

The announcement follows a Buckingham Palace review of patronages organised by the royal household and the RACA’s former patron, the Prince of Wales, extending to over 1000 charities and organisations across the United Kingdom.

Lisa Jenkins, chief executive of RACA, said: “Royal patronage has helped support RACA’s wider commitment to excellence across the culinary arts, alongside the promotion of hospitality as an aspirational and rewarding career path.”

It comes amid a new chapter for the RACA, which recently appointed Adam Byatt, chef patron of Michelin-starred restaurant Trinity and culinary director of Brown’s Hotel in London, as its new chairman.

Byatt, said: “Witnessing his Majesty’s desire to support hospitality first hand at a visit to Trinity in 2021, celebrating the reopening of restaurants after lockdown, was one of the most memorable days I have had at Trinity.  His kindness and desire to engage with all my team will remain with them forever.”

Byatt’s appointment saw his mentor John Williams, executive chef at the Ritz London, step up to the role of president after 20 years as chair.

Williams takes over from Brian Turner, who has assumed the role of honorary president of the organisation.

Williams said: “Both personally and on behalf of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, I am immensely proud; it is a tremendous honour and privilege to serve His Majesty King Charles. His unwavering support since 2013 has been invaluable, and we are honoured to serve under his distinguished patronage.”