The number of people turning to a Chippenham church offering a free weekly lunch has risen as word spreads.

The cost of living crisis has prompted Sheldon Road Methodist Church to offer lunches every Saturday through the summer.

Its first lunch was attended by 23 people, with the number rising to 35 at its second event on Saturday.

Volunteers at the church in Audley Road offer a two-course meal with tea or coffee between 12.30pm and 1.30pm, and are planning to keep the service going until at least September 3.

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are on offer, with the scheme funded by church members and grants.

Organisers hope to make the service a permanent fixture and are talking to other churches and local charities about ways of co-operating.

Chris Beckett, a member of the church’s leadership team, said: “There were a number of families with children, which was great.

"Everybody said how they were made to feel welcome and enjoyed the time and the food. Some people felt comfortable enough to ask if there was any spare at the end of the lunch that they could take home with them. There was and they did!”

The church would also be interested in hearing from people willing to help with the project.

To help, email admin@sheldonroad.church