DURING the October half term, many businesses and communities around Northwich stepped in to ensure children in the area wouldn't go hungry.

With footballer Marcus Rashford acting as an inspiration to many, one scheme started by local Liberal Democrats in the Eddisbury and Weaver Vale constituencies raised more than £4000.

Lee Siddall was joined by fellow party members Jo Conchie, Daniella Parker, Antoinette Sandbach, Malcolm Gaskill, Keith Hinde and Vikki Moran is raising £4,167.

"I was blown away with all the donations," Lee explained.

"I had people turning up at my home in Castle late into the night on the Friday when schools broke up to deliver food donated and bags for the kids.

Northwich Guardian:

Dozens of lunches were delivered to those who needed them.

"I have had many businesses offering help and support for the children and it was heartening to see that community spirit was alive and kicking in Northwich."

Lee met up with Charles Darwin Primary School Head Teacher Adam Croft, to discuss fundraising plans to help as many vulnerable families as possible.

He added: "Adam was extremely helpful and circulated my email offering help to schools in the area.

"After speaking to many schools, families and organisations over the half term period, they have been so appreciative of the efforts and support businesses and the community have shown them in such short space of time.

"One mother of three thanked me for my help and said if it were not for the local community pulling together along with businesses in this way, she wouldn’t have known where to turn.

"I would like to thank Northwich Community Support group, who have been a shining light this half term for families and children in Northwich."

Northwich Guardian:

Lee Siddall and his colleagues from the local Liberal Democrats raised more than £4000.

The money raised during the initiative has meant Lee and his colleagues were able to buy food for the Northwich Community Support Group for them to distribute and help local children in the area.

Lee went on: "Any money that is left over will be donated to Northwich Community Support group for them to help local children over this challenging Christmas period.

"Without the involvement of this amazing group, hundreds of families would not have known where to turn for help during this half term.

"I would like to thank all the fantastic local businesses who have stepped up and helped despite the tough time you all are having yourself along with everyone who has helped and donated to this cause.

"Well Done Northwich and thank you."