Donated food from festival helps to feed vulnerable residents

A South Derbyshire music festival has shown it rocks in more ways than one after donating 61kg of food to vulnerable people.

Fish, vegetables and cooked chicken are among the items that made their way from the Bloodstock Festival, at Catton Hall, to the Bank House - South Derbyshire Mental Health Association.

The kind gesture was made by Envision Catering and overseen by South Derbyshire District Council as part of its work to encourage traders to consider whether surplus food can be donated rather than thrown away.

Vulnerable groups that have benefitted from the donated dishes include the homeless, low-income families, elderly residents and people with learning difficulties.

Jon Shillabeer, Manager of the Bank House charity, based in Alexandra Road, Swadlincote, said:

“We are so pleased to receive surprise donations like this. It's a real treat as it minimises waste whilst feeding those who are in need. Everyone’s a winner.

“We’re grateful to Envision Catering and the Environmental Health team at South Derbyshire District Council for helping to make this happen.”

Food donated and eaten by more than 100 people include cartons of milk, risotto, tuna, sausages, bread,  melons, cucumbers and pears.

All donated grub passed environmental health checks and came with food safety information before being distributed.

Cllr Martyn Ford, Leader of South Derbyshire District Council, said:

“The Council is pleased to have played its part in helping to donate such a large amount of food and would like to encourage more people to follow suit.

“We’d urge anyone who has leftover food from summer events, festivals and barbecues to think twice before throwing it out, as there are vulnerable people who could benefit.”

In the past, the Council has also helped to facilitate large donations of food from the Swadlincote International Food and Drink Festival and the Derbyshire Sausage and Cider Festival and Country Show.

Further information about preventing food waste at events is available by telephoning 01283 228780.

16 August 2018