CAMPAIGNER and football star Marcus Rashford has praised Blackburn and Darwen markets for helping in the free school meals initiative.

The vouchers - issued by Blackburn with Darwen Council - allow struggling families with children eligible for free school meals to make healthy choices.

They can choose from an array of locally-sourced vegetables, bakery, meat, fish and dried goods while supporting the small businesses that are a vital source of essential supplies to the community.

The campaign has even been recognised on Twitter by Manchester United player and free school meals campaigner Rashford.

He said: “Love that Blackburn and Darwen has mobilised local business into their hunger-related schemes. Well done.”

The vouchers can be used for food at any of the fresh food stalls including fruit and vegetables, butchers, fishmongers, bakeries, delicatessens and grocery stalls.

With vegetables picked the same day, meat sourced from local farmers and fish direct from the docks, this solution is supporting children in a sustainable and healthy way.

Scott Stewart, who runs the fruit and veg stall on Blackburn Market said: “It’s been great to support this scheme and see people discovering the wide range of fresh food available in the market at the same time. Seeing families leaving with fabulous fresh produce to help get them through the time when school meals would normally be available is really satisfying. We’ve been really proud to be part of it.”

The participating traders have been advising parents on healthy meal ideas, recommending a range and variety of choices and giving tips on how to make the vouchers go further with money saving ideas.

This personal service, quality produce and value for money has won many parents over and keeping the spend in the local economy has helped businesses in challenging times.

Phil Riley, Executive Member for Growth and Development at Blackburn with Darwen Council said: “Supporting children and local businesses at the same time is a great solution to the challenges that are facing families during the latest round of restrictions.

“Rather than pre-packed boxed food, families are able to choose high-quality produce and make a vital contribution to small businesses and the local economy at the same time.

“This type of community support is the essence of what we are aiming to achieve in Blackburn and Darwen.”