Coronavirus Kent: The Chequers in Aylesford delivers cooked meals to village pensioners
Published: 13:10, 17 March 2020
Updated: 13:26, 17 March 2020
A village pub landlord is offering to deliver a cooked dinner every day to pensioners in the community during the coronavirus lockdown.
Dave House, who runs the Chequers and Hengist restaurant in Aylesford, says he does not want elderly people go without a decent meal because they have to stay indoors.
The gesture is among a growing number of community spirited services and support being offered across the county in the wake of the crisis and latest 'stay-at-home' advice to vulnerable people.
Mr House's offer is limited to those over 70 who the government is advising should be self-isolating.
"We are just trying to do our bit because we have a very close-knit community here in Aylesford and need to look out for each other during this crisis," he said.
"I'm worried that some of our older residents can't get out and if they do, find the shop shelves stripped bare and may not have enough at home to keep them going.
"We have our suppliers on board with fresh produce and also the support of parish councillors.
The free service starts tomorrow with a lasagne dish, prepared in the pub's kitchen for delivery at tea time.
"But it's not just about a hot meal," adds Mr House, "because a visit to check on someone's welfare is equally as important."
Mr House estimates his team will deliver about 50 meals every day to those who have called in and requested one.
"Obviously, it is just for those living in village, including our Royal British Legion community, " he said.
The service is being widely publicised across the village to reach those in most need.
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Gerry Warren