A FORDINGBRIDGE bakery is come to the aid of families in the town by offering free packed lunches for children who need them this half-term.

The lunches will be for children who attend the schools in the town.

Mike Penton, who runs The Cottage Loaf on High Street, said: "Obviously with the voucher scheme stopping for the holidays and having three children going through the schools ourselves we thought we could help out by providing school lunches for children that need them throughout the half-term."

Since putting the initial post on Facebook today Mike says the response has been great with businesses coming forward to help and even customers making donations to help.

"I put it on Facebook to see what sort of response we would have and since putting it on there a couple of the shop in Fordingbridge have come forward to offer some help and we have had a customer come in to donate some money which is great. It goes to show that Fordingbridge seems to stand up during these times. Whilst the lockdown was on they all came and supported our shop very well so it is our way saying thank you for that," he said.

"It is a typical response from Fordingbridge. The community do really seem to stick together when we need to. It is such an amazing town. Everyone should be proud of themselves."

This comes after England football star Marcus Rashford’s bid to extend free school meals over the holidays was voted against by MPs.

The Manchester United player called on people to “unite” to protect the most vulnerable children, adding: “For as long as they don’t have a voice, they will have mine.”

Labour’s motion, which called for the scheme to be extended over school holidays until Easter 2021, was defeated by 261 votes to 322 – majority 61. MP for New Forest West, Sir Desmond Swayne, voted 'No'.

Mike said: "We are just in a position where we can help. We are happy to help where we can."

"It is something we can do now and if it is successful it is something we can look at again throughout the Christmas holidays as well," he added.

Speaking to parents who may be struggling this half-term, he said: "I would love them to come forward to us."

Call The Cottage Loaf on 01425652460 before 10am for a lunchtime collection.