News

The pupils of Wark First School in Wark, near Hexham in Northumberland, are enjoying a menu of freshly-prepared lunches thanks to a link-up with nearby Battlesteads Pub, Hotel and Restaurant.

Following funding cut backs from the Local Education Authority (LEA), the school had to make the decision to close its kitchen and make its part-time cook redundant so head teacher Amanda Lewis needed to find an alternative solution.

The team at multi-award winning Battlesteads came to the rescue and they're now providing meals for the 30 children at the school every day.

Richard Slade, who owns and runs Battlesteads, commented: "Everyone wins in this situation. We can make use of our kitchen at what would usually be a down time. The school has a solution to its problem. The children get lunches that are full of flavour and variety and are made from seasonal produce, much of which is home grown. The parents have peace of mind that their children are being fed well, and local suppliers are gaining business as our menus include locally sold produce."

The menus are agreed in advance and run on a four weekly rotation. The service is paid for by the parents and is operated on a non-profit-making basis.

Wark First School head teacher Amanda Lewis added: "The incredible take up from the children and the empty plates speak for the success of the service already. We've met all the health and safety and food hygiene regulations and everyone is happy – especially the teachers and classroom assistants who most definitely appreciate the quality of the food."