A COMMUNITY food initiative has been described as “a vital service” after being visited by an MSP.

Craig Hoy, who represents the South Scotland region, stopped off at Lammermuir Larder in Haddington where he saw first-hand the work being carried out by the team of volunteers.

Mr Hoy met with Pat Lemmon, who founded the group, and Jamie Crichton, chairman of the Bridge Centre, where the Lammermuir Larder is based. It is a community food initiative set up to support individuals and families in the Haddington and Lammermuir area who are struggling financially to feed themselves or their families.

Mr Hoy, who lives in the town, said: “The Lammermuir Larder is providing a vital service for the local community during a very difficult time for many households.

“I look forward to working with the team to promote the work of the Larder and to engage social services and NHS Lothian to encourage referrals from within the Haddington and Lammermuir area.”

And he added: “I would like to thank Pat Lemmon and Jamie Crichton, along with the volunteers, donors and local retailers, for getting this important community resource established. The Covid pandemic has put a huge strain on some families and the Larder has already been a real help to those in need.”