A CHARITY in Taunton has helped save more than 30 tonnes of food from going to waste – smashing a world record in the process.

More than 400 volunteers, including food redistribution charity City Harvest London, Somerset County Cricket Club and pupils from Wellington School, worked around the clock to make the fresh ready-meals in 24 hours so they can be distributed to charities around Somerset

The team of volunteers managed to cook 79,591 meals in total which saw the organisers of the ‘Big Cook Challenge’, the Thomas Franks Foundation, achieve a new world record.

More than 400 volunteers helped out on the day Picture: Thomas Franks

The challenge only used food that would otherwise go to landfill – such as surplus food from supermarkets and restaurants that was close to going out of date or was no longer needed.

A spokesperson for Thomas Franks said: “With the help of 400+ amazing volunteers and saving over 30 tonnes of food, we’ve made a huge impact in the fight against food waste and hunger.

“A massive thank you to everyone involved for their dedication, teamwork and passion – this record is yours too!”

Food was collected from restaurants and supermarkets that would otherwise go to landfill Picture: Thomas Franks

Volunteers from other Somerset businesses and schools helped make and package the meals before packing them vans ready to be distributed to charities and organisations in Somerset.

Alex Kemp, deputy head at Wellington School, said: “We loved the record-breaking aspirations of this project and the opportunity for our students to learn about reducing food waste and supporting communities.

“The challenge also highlights the positive impact young people can make to wider society.

“The volunteering opportunity was identified and promoted in school by our amazing Student Leaders, and everyone involved gained valuable hands-on experience about the importance of social responsibility.”