The Larder is a small coffee shop within Oakham, and over the last week we have had many requests from our customers to open our doors and offer a take away service. Whilst we appreciate that you all miss us - we personally do not feel that is how our resources are best utilised at the moment.

Our plan is to use the space, skill and resources that we have at The Larder to produce ‘oven or freezer ready’ meals that will be delivered directly to those most in need within the local community during the Covid-19 crisis.

This would be a totally free service (no charge for the food or delivery); and available for all with no eligibility criteria or questions asked - although we would ideally want to prioritise the elderly, self-isolating and key workers. The food is to be prepared in our professional kitchen, and delivered directly to the doorstep whilst strictly following the social distancing advice.

As a small business, we feel the government have done their part in trying to ensure that our business continues; and now it is our time to give something back.

Although many of our customers have offered their services; cooking, shopping and as delivery drivers, we believe that this would be encouraging the kind of social contact that is advised against. The best ways to help is to let us know of anyone who would benefit from the meals, pass on our details to any relevant charities / organisations who we could link up with, and of course donating financially to this cause.

The money raised will be entirely used for purchasing essential supplies to allow the food to be made. Should there be any money left when this all ends, it will be donated to a local charity.

Alyson and Iain x