A CHARITY in Cirencester that helps those in the community who have issues that limit their quality of life such as unemployment, debt and housing challenges, is celebrating a one year anniversary of a scheme to turn surplus food from a supermarket into meals for the homeless and vulnerable.

Cirencester Signpost launched Food Share Fridge in partnership with Marks and Spencer in Dyer Street one year ago, turning surplus food that is still in date but would otherwise have been discarded into hot meals for the most vulnerable in the community.

And throughout the year over 750 meals have been served at its Good Neighbour sessions which take place every Monday and Wednesday evening at the Bothy in Ashcroft Road offering meals based on Chinese, Indian, Italian and traditional British themes.

Chairman Graham Harris said: "By working together with M&S we are able to offer food of the highest standard and this has proved a great success.

"In addition vegetables, fruit and bakery products are available to take away.

"Coming together to have a meal is an excellent way to get to know people and make friends and in so doing we can offer emotional support and provide encouragement to those most in need and link them with other agencies".

Additionally the charity has also announced a partnership with Triple Two Coffee of Cricklade Street who are making available sandwiches, wraps, salads and yoghurts.

The charity runs a number of initiatives including a Saturday Big Breakfast at St Peter's Hall on St Peter's Road between 9.30-11am, serving a variety of hot, cold and healthy breakfasts to anyone in need.

At a New Year breakfast they handed out 75 food parcels to the community, thanks to partnerships with local Waitrose and M&S stores,who supplied trays of vegetables and fruit, with donations from Cirencester Foodbank, St James's Place and Paternoster House.

For details about Cirencester Signpost visit cirencester-signpost.org.uk