HOTEL owners in Peebles have joined forces with community groups in a bid to stop families going hungry during the coronavirus crisis.

It is feared that stark drops in income and lay-offs could push people into poverty during the lockdown.

This has led to Peebles Community Trust (PCT) launching a service for anyone struggling to feed their families.

Using recently acquired funding from the Scottish Government, the trust cooked up a plan with Peebles' Tontine Hotel and will serve families fresh and nutritious dinners.

Families who are in need of this free meal service must first register with the Covid-19 Mutual Support Group.

Once registered, families will need to make the support group aware of their needs and they will receive meals delivered to their homes by volunteers who will ensure social distancing guidance is followed.

Les Turnbull, chairman of the community council and also a director of the PCT, said: “This is an exciting addition of support to families in need at this very difficult time.

"We are aware that there are some families who are having difficulty providing for their families, when previously they could, and we wanted to do something for them.”

The hospitality heroes supporting this community project are Gordon and Kate Innes, owners of the Tontine Hotel.

Mr Turnbull explained: “Knowing that the Tontine Hotel was open for key workers, we approached Kate Innes who jumped at the chance to help the community.

“Because the Tontine Hotel is only covering their costs, we have been able to obtain these meals at a very competitive price and for that we are grateful."

The hotel owners say it is their way of giving back to the community.

Kate added: “We have a skeleton staff working at the moment including our new head chef Trevor.

"When Les approached us we thought it was a wonderful idea. The team were really up for doing it and are happy to be helping families during this difficult time.”

Those seeking help and support must register with the Peebles Covid-19 Mutual Support Group through their website (peeblessupport.org/request-support) or by calling 0800 009 6709.