A community fridge has celebrated its one-year anniversary, after successfully reducing food waste and supporting residents along the way.

Seaton Library's community fridge launched on April 14, 2023, and it has since become an emblem of generosity and community-spirit, as well as preserving thousands of meals that were otherwise destined for disposal.

Situated within Seaton Library, the community fridge operates using a 'take what you can use and leave some for the next person' policy.

In its first year of operation, the initiative has managed to prevent over 6,000 kilos, or around 6 tonnes, of food from going to waste.

This has not only promoted sustainability and contributed to reduced greenhouse gas emissions but also fostered a more circular economy.

The fridge continuously benefits from the generous contributions of Seaton's SAVE food hub, who regularly stocked the fridge with an array of fresh produce, pantry basics, and even fresh bunches of flowers.

Volunteers and library staff have been instrumental in the fridge's successful operation, especially maintaining cleanliness and promoting awareness within the community about the initiative.

Commending the initiative, Seaton Library supervisor, Mr Richard O'Mahoney, said: "We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed to the success of our community fridge over the past year. "Together, we have made a real difference in reducing food waste and addressing food insecurity in our community.

"As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to continuing this important work and expanding our impact in the years to come."

The one-year anniversary was celebrated last Saturday with an event at the Seaton Library.

The gathering acknowledged the phenomenal contribution of the library staff and volunteers while also offering fun and games for attending children on the theme of food.

Part of the celebration involved making cakes using ingredients that would have otherwise been discarded.

Interested parties wanting further information or seeking involvement with the community fridge can reach out to the SAVE food hub at the community larder at 19 Queen Street, Seaton, which is adjacently located to the library.

Recurring timetable are displayed on thedoor and online at www.savefoodhub.org.uk/about, or they can be contacted at savefoodhub@gmail.com.