A free dining initiative for residents in Melksham and Melksham Without parish, which was set up by town councillor Louisa Lewis, has grown beyond all expectations, as has the amount of support her charity has received, she says.
The number of diners has doubled since Melksham Community Dining started free lunches every Wednesday at Bowerhill Village Hall and now, due to the kindness of the volunteers, lifts are available where needed.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our organisation,” says Louisa, “and we have an amazing group that are fun, willing and dedicated. We are hoping more people will join our volunteer group.”
Louisa has recently been presented with a donation of a food gift card from Waitrose. “There is so much generosity in Melksham”, she said. “This will make an enormous difference to our Christmas Day lunch as we will now be able to offer the free Christmas Day lunch to more residents. We would also like to say thank you to the many people, including Melksham Motor Spares on Bowerhill, who kindly donated through Melksham Community Dining Fund Raiser on my Facebook page.”
Last week, the diners were treated to a taste of pre-Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. After lunch, the activities went in to full swing, with a game of Name that Tune with Dee Macleod (trustee of Melksham Community Dining) playing on her miniature piano. Dee said, “As usual, there was much merriment and laughter. We had so much fun, especially when one of our diners bravely had a go at playing the piano.”
Louisa added “It’s wonderful to see, that as the word spreads, more people are finding the confidence to come and join us. This is just what I wished for; a place where everyone can come together. Where the warm and relaxed ambience helps forge new friendships, enjoying good fun, good food and great company together.”
To book a Wednesday lunch or/and a Christmas Day lunch at the Bowerhill Village Hall call Louisa on 01225 374232 /07492 693671.
Picture: Left to right Jodie with her guide dog Odin, Tanya, Jo (volunteer,) Carrie with her guide dog Mike.