The Lasan Indian takeaway and chip shop is offering free meals to the children of families struggling during the October half term.

Mohammed Ali who owns the popular takeaway in Kingsland, Shotley is offering a choice of either vegetable or chicken korma with pillau rice, or a small portion of fish and chips, from tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday of Friday this week.

Mr Ali, his children and staff were moved by reports that local MP James Cartlidge and the majority of his fellow Conservatives had voted against a motion to extend the £15 food voucher scheme through the week-long school holiday and over the two-week Christmas break, after issues were exacerbated due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"It is awful to think there could be young children in our village going hungry during school holidays," said Mr Ali. "We wanted to help, and felt this was the best thing we could do."

Parents need to call ahead on 787033 to order and let staff know it is for a schoolchild so discretion is guaranteed. There is no obligation for adults to order a meal too if they don't want to.

The vouchers, used by children who usually have free school melas during term time, were handed out during the summer holidays following a campaign by Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford.

There has been widespread condemnation of the Conservatives who voted against the motion, including Mr Cartlidge, with many cafes and other organisations taking it upon themselves to do something in the short term.

This includes, Brantham Athletic FC and the Brantham Leisure Centre, who have organised and delivered food parcels to this in need in the village.

For Lasan menus and contact details on our Local List here.