By Isle of Wight Observer
The St Helens community fridge has reason to celebrate this week, having been awarded the highest possible rating of ‘5’ by environmental health inspectors, following a recent visit. Since opening its doors, in November 2023, the community fridge has quickly become a valued part of village life, housed in the foyer of St Helens Community Centre. It provides a home for surplus perishable food donated by local shops, allotment holders, and residents. Volunteers collect, sort, and manage the donations making food freely available to all, with voluntary contributions welcomed to help cover running costs.
The fridge is classed as a food business, strict hygiene and record keeping standards apply. Volunteers are responsible for regular cleaning, temperature monitoring, and checking use by dates to ensure everything remains safe and fresh.
The five star rating reflects the commitment of the team behind the project. Helen Bradstock, who has led the initiative from the start, praised the efforts of the volunteers: “They are a fantastic team, and this five-star rating is entirely thanks to their hard work, vigilance, and enthusiasm; we’re all incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
The community fridge not only reduces food waste but fosters a stronger sense of togetherness in St Helens, a shining example of what grassroots action can accomplish with dedication and care.
Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter