Fears allayed after concerns Alnwick was missing out on covid funding

Following the Government’s refusal to provide food vouchers for children eligible for free school meals during half-term last week, local authorities and businesses stepped up to fill the gap.

Northumberland County Council, while not introducing a universal scheme, enabled all councillors to support town and parish councils, as well as community groups, with specific grants of up to £2,000 for Covid-related financial support.

Cllr Martin Swinbank, an Alnwick town councillor, welcomed the announcement on Sunday, October 25, but called for a fair share for residents in Alnwick, Alnmouth and Lesbury, which are covered by a two-seat ward with two councillors.

Currently, however, there is only one representative, Cllr Gordon Castle, after Cllr Robbie Moore was elected as the MP for Keighley in December 2019 and then the May elections were postponed due to Covid-19.

Cllr Castle has now confirmed that he immediately approached the council leader and chief executive to seek the appropriate amount for a two-member ward.

“As a result, I have been able to secure £4,000 for Alnwick ward and have passed it to Alnwick Town Council to administer for all ward residents, including those in Alnmouth and Lesbury,” he said.

“The intention is to make it available over Christmas not just for Covid-related food shortage, but for family hardship that might include difficulties with utility bills.

“Other agencies like Alnwick Food Bank and the community centre are better placed to identify families in need and have already had funds allocated by Alnwick Town Council from my £4,000.”

Amble Food Bank has so far received £500 from Amble West with Warkworth member, Cllr Jeff Watson.

“I’m delighted to be able to help in this way to try to provide support at this difficult time,” he said. “Amble Food Bank does a fantastic job, but they have seen a rise in demand because of the current situation.”

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