Tens of thousands of meals were dished out to good causes in Lancashire during the Easter school holidays to keep the less fortunate fed.

Supermarket chain Aldi handed out 37,400 meals to charities, community groups and food banks, which were invited to collect unsold fresh and chilled food to then pass on to those who need it most.

Less fortunate families often feel the pinch during holidays, when schools are closed meaning there is greater pressure on family food budgets.

Across the county, more than 130 good causes received food to pass on.

Nationally, around 833,600 meals were distributed during the school holidays, as part of Aldi’s partnership with Neighbourly, a community giving platform that links businesses to charitable organisations.  

Liz Fox, national sustainability director at Aldi UK, said: “We know that the school holidays can be a particularly challenging time for families, and food banks regularly see heightened demand.

“By working with such amazing charities in Lancashire through our partnership with Neighbourly, we are able to give back by providing donations to those who need it most.”

Steve Butterworth, chief executive of Neighbourly, said: "The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has increased the demand on food banks, particularly during the school holidays.

“Aldi's contributions serve as a lifeline for many, providing essential support to enable these causes to continue their vital work within local communities."

More than 44 million meals have been donated around the UK since the Aldi-Neighbourly partnership began in 2019.

The two also recently started a new 'Spring' fund to provide additional support for families in need in the UK.

Eligible charities across the Neighbourly network, such as baby banks and children’s centres, will be able to access grants of £500 to help them provide immediate support to struggling families.