A NEW business venture offering affordable meals to people across Harwich has launched. 

Food for Thought Catering, runs from the Upper Dovercourt Social Club, in Main Road, Dovercourt. 

It has been set up by Jade Gosling, Amy Reynolds and Mark Wood and serves affordable meals for the community.

The idea was inspired by the trio's time volunteering at the Parkeston Dining Club. 

Jade said: "We originally started cooking for Bill Davidson, who ran the Parkeston Dining club and posted an ad to find volunteers.

"When we initially started, we had around eight people per day, but over the years, we have built this to about 40 attendees for a two-course sit-down lunch. 

"Volunteers run the club, and all meals are free, however, we encourage donations to help us continue to run. 

"We also welcome new people that would like to come along and enjoy the meals and social aspect of the club."

The new venue has hosted an event during Christmas for those in need, although the official opening day was January 16.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Jade continued: "From doing this work, we quickly realised a huge need for this service in our community. 

"This has to lead us to make the huge leap to start our own business to try and provide the service."  

New catering services will provide freshly cooked homemade meals, which can be delivered to those needing extra help.

Jade said: "We make meals as affordable as possible; however, we appreciate that the cost of living is at an all-time high in this current climate. 

"With this in mind, we will work closely with community organisations to take referrals from struggling individuals who cannot afford to pay in full."

Anyone willing to join the Parkeston Dining Club volunteers can contact Bill Davidson at 07506212377.

For more information about the Food for Thought catering services, email Amy at contact@foodforthoughtcateringandevents.co.uk.