A SERVICE that will help to prevent food waste while supporting some of the most vulnerable in the community has been launched.

The community group Ormsgill Stronger Together has created a Community Fridge with funding provided from Hubbub.

Members of Ormsgill Stronger Together were joined by Ormsgill councillors Bill McEwan and Derek Brook and a representative from the Co-op to do the honours of launching the project.

“There is a lot that goes into running a community fridge and we are still finding our feet with it,” said a spokeswoman for the group.

“Luckily we have lots of support from the Co-op so we are hopeful that this will benefit our community.

“Thank you to the wonderful couple that have kindly offered to help us with one of our collection slots. This means one less trip for us, which we are very grateful for.”

The service is available for everyone to use with the group stressing that the project is as much about food waste as it is about supporting the community.

A spokeswoman said: “This food is going to be wasted if you do not take it. So please don't feel that you cannot come and help yourself. We can also take donations from you if you have anything that just isn't getting eaten at home.”

During its first week of operation, it is estimated that the project has saved 538.95kgs of goods from going to landfill.

The service has seen a high demand due to people struggling to afford to purchase food.

The project sees fresh food donations from Co-op, Morrisons and Ormsgill Spar.

The team would love to receive donations of tinned food and toiletries.

The fridge, plus cupboard and freezer, will be open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, between the hours of 9am-11am at Ormsgill Community Centre. A member of Ormsgill Stronger Together will be around for those who may need assistance.

You can also find out more information by searching for the ‘Ormsgill Community Fridge’ Facebook page.