AN ISLAND business is attempting to do what the government voted not to — feed children during the school holidays.

Socialising Buddies has started a fundraising page and donated £500 to kickstart it, and other businesses and individuals have started pledging too.

The money will be given to takeaways across the Island, so children can pop in next week and claim a free meal deal.

Happy Haddock was the first to sign up — a chippy based in both Shanklin and Sandown.

Read more: Island MP defends vote against free school lunches

Mark and Charlotte Kelly, owners of Socialising Buddies, said if there was any money left over after next week, the scheme would roll over to Christmas.

They said: "In these times where everyone is feeling the pain of Covid-19 we hope this will help the local community."

Mark told the County Press: "I was absolutely disgusted with the government. I feel every child is entitled to a lunch so the more donations that come in, the more we can provide.

"Kids can go to the Happy Haddock, or anywhere else that signs up, and ask for a meal, until the money runs out."

To donate, go to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/socialisingbuddiesfeedtheisland?utm_term=JXgWQKDka

The County Press will update this article with a list of takeaways getting involved.

The scheme starts on Monday.