A social supermarket pantry has been instigated by County Councillor Barbara Brown of Rugby Labour.

Following a model used in Labour Run Coventry and suggested by County Councillor Sarah Feeney, Barbara found initial support by council.  Once local Tories considered it then opposition grew with one leading Tory saying, “we don’t need that sort of thing – we are a rich county.”

The idea almost stalled – but money has been made available to run local ‘pantries’ where local residents can sign up to Membership.  For £5 per visit, a local member can obtain at least 10 items plus a free hot or cold drink.

Currently, this Pantry concept is running in Newbold – but additional pantries are planned for Overslade and also Brownsover.