MELKSHAM Community Dining has received a surprise gift from the market traders of Melksham. The free dining service, open to all, which is based in Bowerhill Village Hall and runs from 1pm until 3pm every Wednesday, was grateful to receive food donations from the traders at last Tuesday’s market.
VP Collins, Taylors of Bruton, Andy’s Cakes and Hogs Bottom Garden Delights donated a range of grocery items including vegetables, cakes, biscuits, pickles and bread to support cllr Louisa Lewis in her free community dining initiative.
“I’m overwhelmed by the generosity of the traders,” said Louisa. “It is because we have such good people in Melksham, willing to give so generously that we are able to get this project off the ground and help make people’s lives happier. The lunches are free and for all ages, especially for those feeling alone and in need of good company and wanting to make new friends.
“These social lunches have become such fun and with our new army of volunteers, we hope very soon to extend to another day.
“As well as concentrating on making our free social lunches ‘the place to be on a Wednesday’, we are also preparing for Christmas as we will be serving a free Christmas lunch on Christmas Day at Bowerhill Village Hall.
“We couldn’t do this without the kindness and support we are receiving locally. I would like to say a huge thank you to the stall holders and to Gompels chemist who also kindly made a very generous contribution to the charity. It certainly helps make this world a better place for us all. Thank you.“
David McKnight, a member of the board of trustees of Community Dining added, “I am delighted at the generous donations from Melksham’s market traders. This reflects the experience I have amongst the people and businesses in the Melksham area and their generosity and commitment to the community.”
‘Melksham Community Dining’ was set up last month to offer emotional support to people of all ages in the community, and anyone that might feel nervous about socialising again.
As well as a free two-course lunch, the group offers a variety of free social activities.
• Melksham Community Dining is held every Wednesday at Bowerhill Village Hall, 1pm to 3pm. To reserve a place or enquire about volunteering please phone, cllr Louisa Lewis on 01225 374232 or 07492 693671; or email: melkshamdining@gmail.com
