ROMSEY businesses are pulling together to help support those in need this half-term.

Businesses in the market town revealed they would help youngsters after the Government voted against Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford’s bid to have free school meals for eligible children extended over the school holidays until Easter 2021.

As reported, Rashford, who himself endured food poverty as a child, had called for MPs to put aside party politics before the vote.

However, Labour's motion was defeated by 261 votes to 322 – a majority of 61.

If approved, the motion would have provided 1.4m disadvantaged children in England with £15-a-week food vouchers.

Here is a list of some of the Romsey businesses offering free meals this half-term:

  • That Little Tea Shop in The Hundred is offering free packed lunches to take-away. Lunches can be collected at 11.45am from today until Friday. You can call them on 07907078489.
  • The Bakery in Premier Way will provide family lunchboxes for anyone in need. Residents can collect them from Wednesday, October 28. Anyone who would like a lunchbox should send The Bakery a message on their Facebook page by tonight.
  • The Hair Hut in Abbey Park Industrial Estate will be making packed lunches. They can be collected tomorrow and Friday at the salon. Residents are advised to privately message their Facebook page if they would like a packed lunch.
  • The Romsey Community School, Greatbridge Road, will be open to help families from today until 2pm, Wednesday from 4pm to 7pm, and on Friday from 10am to 2pm.
  • Cafe Fresh, Market Place, has revealed all children up to 12-years-old, with an adult, can eat for free from today until Friday.