A few months ago, I visited the Community Larder in Seaton and spoke with Aileen and the team about the work they do. This is just one of many great local initiatives that aims to ensure food does not go to waste and is instead put to good use.

This week I was reminded of my visit when I joined the Bowlsathon Christmas Challenge at Beer Mariners’ Hall. This event was organised by Seaton and Beer Bowls Clubs in support of an excellent local Community Interest Company: Foodsave.

As we look to move towards a more sustainable society, we must ensure that we are reducing waste and maximising the amount of food that gets repurposed. In the UK, around 9.5 million tonnes of food is thrown away every year, while up to 40 per cent of the world’s food goes to waste.

I’m really impressed by the work of organisations like Foodsave, locally. One of the few positives to emerge from the Covid era was the growth in the number of community fridges and pantries that opened in our part of the world, aiming to repurpose food that otherwise would be thrown out.

This is not just an issue for those struggling; it is an issue for everyone. While it is true that 8.4 million people in the UK are living in food poverty, these community-led initiatives aim to benefit everyone and build a stigma-free service we all can use.

In times gone by, if you were running low on something, you might nip next door and ask your neighbour. That is the experience these initiatives can help emulate, offering an easy-access place to go for essentials that you know would otherwise go to waste.

It’s a great example of what can be achieved when the communities come together and contribute to something bigger. I speak to many people in East Devon who are worried about the future of our planet and want to be able to contribute – this is one way to help.

We must make the most of the food we grow. At Christmas time in particular, we should try to reduce the amount that is left to rot on the rubbish heap. Together, we can ensure no one in our towns and villages goes without, whilst also helping build a more sustainable future.

This Christmas, if you feel able to donate to the bowlsathon for Foodsave, go to: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/foodsave-bowls