A KIND group of volunteers are leaving no child hungry during the school holidays.

Maureen Powell, a youth leader at the Monkwick Youth Club, has joined forces with other volunteers to create the Monkwick Munch Club.

The aim is to cook hot meals for the children of Monkwick, bringing them together for food and a chat.

The 66-year-old, who has been a youth worker for four years, said she simply wanted to help the community.

She said: “This is mostly for all children in the Monkwick area who receive free school meals, but I could not refuse anyone, including siblings and parents.

“I was eager to help with my experience in home cooking and national food. I shall be providing, for example, vegetarian options, pies, jacket potato, and fish.

“I have long had the wish to assist our community if I can, and this is a very easy way to do so.”

The club will be able to cater for 50 children per day.

The idea came from Richard Iddon, 76, a former maths teacher.

The 76-year-old said: “I came up with the idea for this having seen in the media three million children are going hungry daily.

“So I approached youth club leaders, councillor Dave Harris and Mo Powell, to help who have made the project happen with me.

“I want to thank Colchester Foodbank, shops, businesses and individuals who have donated to make the munch club a reality.”

The new project started on Monday and runs from noon until 1pm during the half term holiday.

The meals are free and have been donated by various community groups.

It will be held at the Fifth Scout Hall in Queen Elizabeth Way.

There is also a youth club which runs on a Friday, from 6pm until 8pm.

People can apply to come along to the Munch Club by contacting councillor Dave Harris on 07816 168858.