A NEW community fridge is now open in Burneside to add to the area's already successful food distribution network.

Located in St Oswald's church, the fridge is a collection point for perishable foods that is open for the community's use.

Opened on August 7, the fridge was praised by local residents.

Councillor Judith Notley, who was instrumental in the fridge's opening, said: "Due to the pandemic, we have learned what neighbourliness and community really means.

FOOD: Members of St Oswald’s Church and Burneside Parish Council

FOOD: Members of St Oswald’s Church and Burneside Parish Council

“The Association was already running a very successful food distribution point and building on this, the Parish Council discussed a collection point for perishable foods needing refrigeration.

"St Oswald’s church offered to house a fridge in the church corridor for all in the community to use. Without their generous support this asset may never have materialised. And so, Fridge project came to fruition.

"We are hoping to establish permanent links with all the local supermarkets to supply us with in-date, surplus, perishable food.

"We are grateful to Gillian Holmes of Cumbria County Council for helping us to fund this."

South Lakes MP Tim Farron voiced his support for the project.

Tim said: “It's been uplifting to see communities coming together and looking out for one another.

"The community fridge is yet another great example of people helping those around them.

"Great thanks to all those who have contributed to this project."