FOOD destined for the skip will be salvaged and put on the menu at a pop-up restaurant that aims to boost community spirit while helping those in need.

A group of friends have organised the upcoming Food For Thought event, taking place in Darlington on Friday, December 29.

Working with the From Little Seeds initiative, they have issued an open invitation to anyone who wishes to join them to share a meal prepared with food that would otherwise have gone to waste.

Earlier in the year, a similar event – held in aid of the King’s Church foodbank and as a response to growing austerity- saw supermarkets and local businesses provide a range of produce that was used to create an inventive menu for scores of diners.

The event’s success prompted some of those involved to widen the scope and launch Food for Thought.

The inaugural event will see guests enjoy a cooked meal and the opportunity to peruse a ‘free shop’, where shelves will be stacked with donated items including tinned and dried food, clothing, essentials and gifts.

Food for Thought will also act as a signposting session for anyone in need of advice or information on a variety of issues.

Organisers are now appealing for help in providing a range of items, from food to winter clothing, bedding, toiletries, sanitary products and unwanted gifts, toys and books.

Louise Graham said she was pleased with the response so far, with schools and local firms amongst those who have pledged their support.

She added: “In a time when people are struggling to put meals on the table it seems really awful that so much good food goes to waste.Around Christmas time, people go all out and there’s so much surplus food on supermarket shelves, they’re brimming with produce and a lot doesn’t get sold.

“We’re trying to put some of that surplus to use to help make some lovely homemade meals for people who may be in need. The free shop will mean people can take something to help them through and we’re hoping people will donate food from their own family’s surplus.

“There’s no expectation for anyone to pay but if anybody sees the value in what we’re doing, they’re welcome to contribute by donating or volunteering.

“We’re hoping this will really help to build community feeling – it’s totally inclusive and open to anybody who wishes to come.”

The pop-up restaurant will appear at Darlington’s Northlands Methodist Church from 12.30pm until 3pm. Anyone who can help should email foodforthought@fromlittleseeds.org.uk or visit FFTDarlington on Facebook.

For more information, visit fromlittleseeds.org.uk/food-for-thought/