THOUSANDS of pupils in Warrington can now tuck into a free school meal as part of a new drive to save families in the town a total of £2.6m while improving academic achievement.

Since the start of the school term, every child in reception, year one and year two in state-funded schools is eligible to receive a free hot lunch, which promises to be healthy and nutritious.

Clr Jean Carter, executive board member for children and young people’s services, said the council has already seen 'real evidence of success' since the free school dinners were introduced.

She said: "In lots of schools there has been a significant increase in uptake, meaning more children are having a healthy, nutritious hot meal each day.

"Some schools have had their kitchen facilities improved and upgraded so are also benefitting from this.

“Schools have really embraced the initiative and thanks to this support we were in a position to offer the meals at the start of term in all primary schools.

"This is also the result of lots of hard work and commitment from the council’s school meals service, primary schools, and our partner Diocese authorities and we are extremely pleased with the results so far."

The roll-out of the scheme in town, which was funded by a grant of £600,000 by the Government, has also created a number of employment opportunities.

Families could also save an average of £400 a year.

In Warrington, the school dinners are run on a three week menu cycle with pupils given the option of two different main courses plus a jacket potato option.

There is also unlimited salad and bread to accompany the main meal with one pudding option or pupils can pick from a yoghurt, fresh fruit or cheese and biscuits.

Stretton St Matthew’s Primary School head teacher Hazel Fryman said she seen an increase in the number of pupils at the school having hot dinners instead of bringing in packed lunches.

She added: "Initially I thought it would be beneficially to the children to have a nutritious hot meal.

"I was concerned about the practicalities to organise more hot dinners at the school but I have been surprised by how smoothly it has gone."

Tuesday's Menu

Main meal:

French pizza bread

Mincemeat pie

Jacket potato with cheese, beans or tuna

Side dishes:

Carrots

Green beans

Jacket wedges

Plus unlimited salad and bread

Pudding:

Jelly

Cheese and biscuits

Yoghurt

Fresh fruit