Horse and Jockey in Curdridge receives thousands of messages of support after cooking free meals for key workers

The Horse and Jockey, in Botley Road, Curbridge, saw the first meals dished up on Sunday May 10, after two days of cooking by the pub’s chef.

In the first week of the scheme, a total of 59 meals – including curries, chillis, lasagne, risotto, and sausage and mash – have been collected by emergency services staff.

Owner Tony Lynam said: ‘So many of them are made up.

‘People can call us up, giving us a day’s notice, and then get a time slot to pick it up the next day.

‘And we’ve received so many messages of support from the community.

‘We’ve had over 2,000 messages, phone calls, and text messages – people have been so gracious.’

The pub paid for the first week of meals and staff hope to maintain the offer with ingredient donations from local businesses, including Owtons Butchers in Southampton and A&T Cooper fruit and vegetable store in Park Gate.

Tony said: ‘It does cost a few bob, but it’s a nice thing to do, and it gives us something to do.’

The national lockdown has seen the Fuller’s pub furlough nine members of staff and receive a small business grant from the government.

Fuller’s had been very supportive during the lockdown, according to Tony: ‘They are not charging tenants rent while they are closed, which is very helpful.’

But the landlord remains concerned about the practically of opening the pub if social distancing remains in place.

He said: ‘If we opened with social distancing, we would have to lose two-thirds of the tables.

‘Most places would have to lose this many tables, and it’s just not viable option.

‘I know there’s talk of pubs opening in July, but I cannot see if happening.

‘I know there’s been suggestions of pub gardens opening, and that’s fine when we have glorious sunshine, but no-one wants to eat a meal in the pouring rain.’

Tony initially contacted Fareham Borough Council leader Sean Woodward to discuss ideas for supporting the community during the Covid-19 crisis.

Cllr Woodward said: ‘Thank you to Tony, and the whole team, for what you are doing at this difficult time.

‘If any local business would like to donate any fresh produce to help make these delicious meals please do get in touch.’

Anyone working in the emergency services can arrange to collect a free meal by calling the pub on 01489 796654.

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