MEMBERS of two Cirencester-based groups have hailed their first community meal a 'great success'.

The Cirencester Rotary Club and human rights group The Soroptimists came together to hold a community meal in St Peter's Church Hall in Cirencester on Wednesday, May 31.

Before the meal families had participated in a Go Wild Fun Day put on by the World Jungle team in St Michael's Park.

Children enjoyed a range of activities including circus events, rock climbing and arts and crafts.

This event was open to everyone but was targeted at families who are struggling to cope with impacts of the cost of living crisis. 

Town council CEO and Cirencester Rotary club member Andrew Tubb said: “It’s the people who make Cirencester the amazing place it is to live.

"It was great to see families from across the community sharing a meal together, this truly demonstrates, in a practical way, community in action.”

Chris Rowbotham, together with his wife Liz, and Barbara Banks were the lead organisers of this meal.

The food and floral arrangements were supplied by The COOK Kitchen, Tesco, Kings Head Hotel, Woody's Fruit & Veg market stall and Oops a Daisy florist. 

All the surplus food from the meal given to the families to take home to use up later in the week.

A spokesperson for the Cirencester Rotary Club said: "The whole event was a great success.

"It is a great example of true community service and co-operation between service organisations. 

"We would like to thank everyone involved in organising this event and everyone who helped on the day."