Stansted Business Forum has announced the launch of its food voucher initiative to support families in need over Christmas.

At the group’s monthly business breakfast meeting on November 1, members gave their support to the scheme to donate money and support to families.

The aim is to raise enough funds to help over 50 families who live in Stansted.

Uttlesford district councillor Iris Evans, also treasurer of the Stansted Business Forum, said “We know through our contact with local schools and agencies, that there are many families in Stansted who are experiencing financial hardship.

“We really want to make sure that these families have that extra bit of money to help them out at a very expensive time of year.”

Shed added: “We will be giving £20 food vouchers for families to spend in shops in Stansted. These shops will include the local butcher, greengrocer and mini supermarket. The food vouchers will be distributed through our local schools and agencies at the beginning of December so that families can plan for their Christmas”.

Peter James, of Murdochs Property Shop and secretary of the forum, said “We now have over 50 members who regularly attend our businesses breakfasts and support our campaign to ‘Think Local and Buy Local’.

“I believe it is very important that local businesses give something back to the community and fundraising for families in need is an ideal way of doing this”.

For more information about the Stansted Business Forum, e-mail peter.james@murdochspropertyshop.co.uk or call 01279 815848.