It’s been confirmed a Ruddington community venture which started over the summer, offering a chef-prepared, two-course lunch for just £1, will continue into next year – and also increase the number of diners it can accommodate.
The twice monthly ‘Heat ‘n’ Eat’ meals, comprising good quality and wholesome, hot food, began at the end of June 2022. They are served-up in the peaceful and welcoming surroundings of St Peter’s Church. As the bitter winter weather bites, the venue has also become one of the ‘Warm Spaces’ in Ruddington where villagers struggling to heat their homes can escape from the cold.
The meals were made possible by financial support from Rushcliffe Borough Council via ‘Reach Rushcliffe’ – with the £1 cost also including a soft drink. Monday (December 5th) saw the final ‘Heat ‘n’ Eat’ of 2022, which was given a decidedly ‘festive’ feel by the organisers.
Church member Liz Mack says: “Chris, from Sycamore Dining, our caterer, outdid himself this week, serving up roast chicken and turkey, roast potatoes and parsnips, carrots, pigs in blankets and stuffing, followed by Christmas Pud and custard! He has consistently been able to provide fabulous filling meals, despite challenges to supply. We wanted to provide a really abundant meal to demonstrate God’s abundance in what he has been providing to us all over the last 6 months.”
She reveals: “I will soon be booking next year’s events up to June 2023*, as this is the period we have funding from ‘Reach’ up until, though I am hoping that we will have further funding to continue providing the meals well after June next year.”
Liz also has good news for those who may have been struggling to get a seat due to the popularity of the venture: “I am increasing the numbers available to 40 from January 2023, and places can be booked via Eventbrite from 2nd January 2023 for our first meal on Monday 23rd January. Whilst we have many regulars now, we are still having new people coming, and a real sense of community building, which I believe is adding something positive into all our lives. I’d love new people to come along. They would find a warm welcome from all present.”
Vicar of Ruddington, Revd Andrew Buchanan, says: “Of all of the events held at St Peter’s, Heat ‘n’ Eat is the one I’m most proud of! Food and good company – what could be better?”
*Ruddington’s ‘Heat ‘n’ Eat’ meals are usually scheduled for the 1st and 4th Monday of each month, and served up in the church at 12.30pm. Once booking opens for the 2023 dates you’ll be able to find them >>HERE<<.
