Crediton Community Larder already a huge success

CREDITON Community Larder, which launched at Crediton Library in March, has already become a huge success.

The Community Larder Planning Group worked closely in partnership with Sue Lee, supervisor of Crediton Library, to get the Community Larder up and running.

A large group of willing volunteers regularly collect surplus food that would otherwise be wasted and take it to the library, where anyone who wants to help save food waste can take what they need.

The Community Larder offers a range of supplies including surplus fruit, vegetables and baked goods for free to all during normal library opening hours. Each day there are different items to choose from.

Supplies are collected from a number of generous retailers, including Tesco (Wellparks), Tesco Express, Four Seasons, Stevie B’s Bakery, The Green House and The Plant Shed. Hopefully Co-op and Morrisons will also be taking part.

A second distribution point at St Lawrence Green will be opening soon with evening opening hours and using boxes outside, which have been donated by Co-op.

Sue Lee said: “We are very pleased with the interest from the community and with the volunteers who have been organised into teams.

“There are lots of volunteers so there’s not too much for each to do.

“There is usually a queue at the door by 9am.

“Any left over food that is not used is composted by members of Sustainable Crediton, some at their allotment.

“Globally, it is estimated that a third of all food is wasted, accounting for eight to 10 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

“We can all play a role in reducing food waste and supporting the community larder is one way to do this.

“Individuals can also donate surplus unwanted food to the larder such as unopened packets or gluts of vegetables from allotment holders.”

The Community Larder hopes to soon provide recipes to encourage people to try something new and perhaps use some vegetables that they are less familiar with.

If you can help as a volunteer please email: [email protected] or telephone/text Alison on 07734 154607.

Nora Parminter