With its own on-site kitchen and staff, St. Mary’s C of E Primary School at Fownhope can roll out the red carpet at Christmas and when Klara Jones, senior cook was asked if she could provide a freshly prepared Christmas Dinner for not just the children but their families too - over 250 of them, she said: “No problem.”

Over two days and four sittings, Klara, the kitchen team and dinner ladies hosted the meal.

“We fed about 250 people with a choice of meat, vegetarian or sandwich meal and a selection of three different desserts;” said Klara. “It’s my first Christmas Dinner in this kitchen and it’s been just wonderful. There is so much joy for everyone. It’s great to see parents eating with their family. Of course, parents can come any day they want but for Christmas Dinner we pretty much have every family”.

“We work hard with our on-site kitchen preparing hot and cold fresh food daily for lunch, Breakfast Club and After School Club;” added Mr Milne, Head Teacher. “Well-fed children learn well and it’s such an important part of growing up into an adult with manners, enjoying eating in company, enjoying trying new food and learning how to eat properly.”

“The school is so positive about food and so patient and helpful with the children who struggle with food,” one mum said.

The school also enjoyed a buffet party lunch on the penultimate day of term.

Klara’s team also prepare and deliver Christmas Dinner for the residents of the adjacent retirement property both at Christmas and monthly. “We’re a proper community here” added Klara “We like to ensure everyone is well fed and looked after.”