A NEW community fridge has been opened inside a local cafe. 

The Purton Community Fridge was officially opened on Wednesday, October 5, and the occasion was filmed by BBC Points West.

Community Fridges offer free food for local residents that would otherwise go to waste.

The Purton Community Fridge is based in the lobby of the Silver Threads Hall where the Pip Community Café is run.

Chairman councillor Ray Thomas said: “This is such a worthwhile project. Purton Parish Council are most pleased and happy to support it in full, particularly in the current economic climate with the high cost of living and people relying on food banks across the country.”

The fridge is now open four days a week and receives donations of food destined for landfill from Co-op, One Stop, Purton House Organic Farm, and local people. It offers both chilled and pantry items as well as toiletries and on occasions dog food.

It was set up earlier this year by a group of volunteers.

It has been funded by local people through the project’s Just Giving page which has raised £550 and Purton Parish Council who have supported the scheme with £594.

The opening event was attended by around 40 people from the local community, as well as from Wiltshire Council, Local Policing, Pips Community Café, the Co-op and One Stop Supermarkets and Purton Council.

The event commenced with the ringing of a hand bell, before cllr Thomas gave a speech and formally cut the ribbon.

There was a further celebration when a cheque for £693.33 was given by Pips Community Café to Purton Community Fridge which will help with ongoing costs including cleaning items, insurance, electricity, and training.

Comments from the community and councillors showed strong support for the new project.

Purton Parish cllr Sue Relfe added: “I’m amazed at the generosity of organisations in the village and the individuals who donate from their allotments.”

Wiltshire Councillor for Purton Jacqui Lay said: “It’s just great to see that the community have got up and done this. They’re a wonderful team!”

The Community Fridge is open to anyone and everyone to prevent waste from going into landfill and to obtain free supplies during the week between 10am to 4.30pm Monday to Thursday and 10am to 1.30pm on Fridays.

To find out more and how you can support the voluntary community project follow them on Facebook at Purton Community Fridge.