Two Ventnor children have been recognised for their help throughout the school holidays at the Thursday Kitchen, based at St Catherine’s Church.

Amelia Craven, 14, who attends The Island Free School, and Summer (9) of St Francis Primary Academy received certificates this week from St Catherine’s Vicar, Rev Tom Burden.

Adrian Pinnock runs the kitchen each week, and said: “Two years ago we started working with Ventnor Town Council through the ‘warm spaces’ scheme, following Covid and offered free meals each Thursday to whoever came through the door.

“At first there were just four people, then six and then as more people heard about it, the numbers increased.

“We now serve 40-50 lunches each week, and this Christmas there were around 100 here! But it’s not just about a free meal, there is a huge social aspect involved; people want to chat and get out and this is a way of doing it.

“Last year, Amelia and Summer started to come along each Thursday during their school holidays, giving up their spare time. The fact they are young adds something to the lunches because they are so good with the elderly.

“They do it all willingly and will help by talking to people, making sure they are sitting down and settled, and collecting them a cup of tea or coffee. The elderly really value that interaction; they are smashing kids.”

The children first started attending the lunches after mum, Shelby, was invited to go for a meal and have a chat with Adrian’s wife, Nicola, the Christmas before last.

Shelby said: “I started going there every week for my own benefit and asked if they would like to come with me. I think Amelia was a bit reluctant at first, but both started to get involved and they love it now.

“It’s not just the kitchen, they also helped out at Ventnor Day and the church carols. Being involved with St Catherine’s makes us all feel good within the community.

“But, without taking anything away from the children, everyone who helps out at the kitchen is absolutely fantastic.”