Free school meals: The Lugger Inn urges parents struggling to get in touch

The pub in Weymouth is one of many to offer food to parents struggling to feed their children during half term.

Author: George SharpePublished 27th Oct 2020

The Lugger Inn is urging parents not to let children go hungry, and get in touch if they need support.

It's after the government's controversial decision not to offer free school meals for the half term school break.

The pub is offering support to anyone as part of what it calls it's 'commitment to helping the community'.

Liam Coles is one of the owners. He said:

"So far we've had three enquiries and we're taking our first lunch out today.

"The incredible thing as well is that people that use the pub have actually come up and offered donations to help us do it. So actually, we're getting more people come forward with their generosity.

"So we just need people to be honest and open and come to us and tell us that they need the help."

The service is completely confidential and they say there's no fixed plan, they'll try to help however they can, whether that's food parcels or a hot lunch at the pub.

Hayley Bell is one of the managers.

She said since Liam and Gill took over, they've always been community minded:

"They've always said that this is a public house and this is for the community and that's what they wanted to offer.

"It's totally Liam and Gill to say they really want to help the children and give them something to eat. I think it's come from the heart and I think it's great."

If you or someone you know might benefit from the scheme, you can find out more here:

https://www.facebook.com/theluggerinnchickerell