A COMMUNITY project in Newent that began as a small winter soup kitchen has celebrated its first anniversary with music, cake and plenty of gratitude.

The Sharing Kitchen, based at Newent Community Centre, marked one year of weekly community meals on Monday with a special celebratory menu and a lively afternoon of socialising.

Guests enjoyed birthday cakes and live music from local performer Derek, who not only entertained diners but also led a cheerful rendition of Happy Birthday to mark the milestone.

The initiative was first launched as a three-month trial to offer free hot soup during the colder months but quickly became a much-loved fixture in the town’s calendar.

Since then, it has grown into a permanent weekly gathering, serving free meals every Monday between 12.30PM and 1.30PM. The sessions are open to everyone and have become a welcoming space for residents to enjoy food, conversation and companionship.

Volunteers say the project has gone from strength to strength thanks to the ongoing support of local organisations and community members. Gloucestershire Police and the Forest of Dean Neighbourhood Policing Team have been regular supporters.

The kitchen also benefits from the involvement of Gloucestershire Rural Community Council’s DAISI Project, which provides digital support to residents who need help with technology or online services.

A Gloucestershire Police spokesperson congratulated the team on their success: “Many congratulations to the Sharing Kitchen and all they do for the people of Newent.”

Organisers expressed their pride at how far the project has come in just a year and thanked everyone involved for their continued support.

They said: “We’ve grown from a three-month winter soup provision to a permanent weekly community meal offering in just one year. Well done all and thank you.”

The Sharing Kitchen continues to welcome residents every Monday at Newent Community Centre.