THE youngest pupils at primary schools across the Chard and Ilminster area have been tucking into free meals at lunch.

More than 15,000 youngsters in reception and years 1 and 2 in Somerset have been catered for under new Government legislation.

The News’ joined children at Redstart Primary School in Chard for their lunch break to see how the food was being received.

Head teacher Suzanne Flack said about 250 children were eligible for free school meals.

She added: “Even those who aren’t eligible for the free meals are paying £2.50 to have them.

“We did have the option to do the bare minimum but we decided against that so we could provide a really healthy and nutrious meal for every child.

“Some children who came in with lunch boxes early in the week are now starting to have school meals, so we expect more children to do the same.”

The school received funding to build a new kitchen next to its hall so catering firm Palmer and Howells could come in to cook the meals.

Mrs Flack said: “We have worked closely with them but added elements to it like meatfree Mondays and making sure children try new foods.”

Palmer and Howells chef manager Paula Woodhead said: “It is going fine – we are very pleased because there has been bad press that some schools are not ready, but we are.

“The children are doing well – everything is made fresh on site and the food is sourced locally where we can.”

Ilminster county council representative Linda Vijeh, who is also involved in the children and families department, said: “There is plenty of evidence to support the view that a good meal can really improve performance and I am sure that the benefit of providing these meals for infants will be evident in the results achieved in the coming months and years.”