Two Lancashire projects who are offering food to children were among those backed by footballer Marcus Rashford this morning.

Community groups, volunteers and businesses across the region have rallied round to support after the Conservative controlled House of Commons decided by 322 votes to 261 - a majority of 61 – not to extend free school meals for vulnerable children over the half-term break.

Dozens of hospitality businesses have also shown they “stand with Rashford, not the 322”, by supporting families during the school holidays. Rashford, who was recently awarded an MBE after forcing a Government U-turn on free school meal vouchers over the summer holidays.

The Manchester United and England star tweeted his support for a number of projects in the UK on the back of the vote.

Among them was an announcement that lunches will be on offer at the St James the Less Church in Rawtenstall.

A message from Katie Jayne read, “Next week from Monday we will be providing packed lunches from the old school room next to St James the Less Church Rawtenstall, (attached to the doctors).”

“Please come and get lunches, we are here to help, no questions asked, come and get what you need. We, are in this together please feel free to share, donations welcome, we can deliver too if needed.”

In Colne Ava Rose Hamilton a family Bridal Boutique posted, “Good morning. This is a totally unrelated bridal post..but we have all been moved by the announcement of children's free school meals been unavailable in the school holidays.

“We have therefore decided to do a service from next week..packed lunches will be available from next Tuesday in both boutiques..Silsden and Colne.

“If you would like to message in confidence, we can have lovely healthy lunches ready. Also if there are any special dietary conditions please advise.

“If you would rather just pop in..lunches will be ready at both reception desks. No children should be hungry in this day and age.”

We will be featuring community groups and volunteers who are doing their bit to help out over the half term in tomorrow's Lancashire Telegraph. Get in touch.