John Sergeant visits the borough to celebrate National Community Meals Week

A Strictly Come Dancing star delivered two Brent residents their lunch as part of a meals on wheels campaign.

Former journalist turn reality celebrity John Sergeant visited Raymond Chick and Doreen Meacher yesterday (Tuesday) in celebration of National Community Meals Week.

Now in its 13th year, the seven-day long event is organised by The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) to raise awareness of the service which provides a vital lifeline for some residents.

Without the service many elderly, disabled or vulnerable people would be forced to be hospitalized or live in residential care.

Mr Sergeant sampled the food made by apetito , the company contracted by Brent Council to supply community meals, at their depot in Oxgate Lane, Cricklewood, before delivering the meals to the delighted pair.

He said: “For many years my mother was a meals on wheels volunteer in Oxford, so it’s been great to see the service continuing today, when it’s more important than ever.

“As our elderly population grows, services like these give vulnerable people the help they need to remain in their own homes, delaying their move into a care home for as long as possible.”

Mr Chick has learning difficulties and has received meals on wheels ever since his mother passed away 10 years ago. He said: “I really enjoy the meals, they keep me going.”

Mrs Meacher, who has received meals on wheels for eight years said her delivery drivers are often the only people she sees each day.

The 80-year-old added: “I really like the meals and there’s a great selection. But the fish dishes are my favourite. It’s a wonderful service and the drivers are always so friendly and helpful.”

For more information about National Community Meals Week visit www.thenacc.co.uk.