Why Your Local Church Could Be the Perfect Home for a Community Food Bank

Food banks have become an essential lifeline for many families across the UK. 

While we all hope for a future where nobody needs emergency food support, the reality is that thousands of people still find themselves struggling to put meals on the table because of unexpected bills, illness, job loss or rising living costs.

One of the best places to help meet that need could already be sitting right in the heart of your community, your local church.

Church buildings are often underused during the week, yet they usually have many of the facilities needed to run a successful community food bank. Many have kitchens for preparing refreshments, accessible halls where people can collect food with dignity, storage space for donated items and, perhaps most importantly, an army of willing volunteers who already care deeply about serving their neighbours.

A church-run food bank isn't simply about handing over tins of beans and packets of pasta. It can become a welcoming community hub where visitors are greeted with kindness, offered a cup of tea or coffee, and treated with respect rather than judgement. Sometimes a friendly conversation is just as valuable as the groceries someone takes home.

Partnerships can make the project even stronger. Local supermarkets, independent food retailers, schools, businesses, community groups and individuals are often happy to donate food or organise collection points. Volunteers can help sort donations, manage stock, prepare food parcels and assist visitors, creating a genuine community effort.

Many churches already support food banks through organisations such as the Trussell network or independent local schemes. However, there is still plenty of scope for more churches to become directly involved, particularly in areas where provision is limited or where demand is increasing.

Running a food bank also provides opportunities to offer wider support. Churches can work alongside debt advisers, employment services, mental health charities and other local organisations, helping people tackle the causes of hardship as well as its immediate effects.

If your church has never considered opening a food bank, perhaps now is the time to start the conversation. Gather together church leaders, local councillors, businesses and residents to explore what is possible. You may discover that the facilities, volunteers and goodwill already exist, you simply need someone to bring everything together.

Communities are often at their strongest when people work side by side. A church-operated food bank demonstrates practical compassion, builds lasting friendships and reminds everyone that nobody should have to face difficult times alone.

After all, sharing food has always brought people together. A community food bank is simply another way of extending that welcome to those who need it most.

Meet air up® – The Clever Way to Make Water More Exciting

Let's be honest here, we all know we should drink more water, but plain tap water isn't exactly the most exciting drink in the world. 

If you've ever found yourself reaching for a sugary soft drink or squash simply because you wanted a bit of flavour, then the innovative air up® system could be well worth a look.

Unlike traditional flavoured drinks, air up® doesn't actually add anything to the water itself. Instead, it uses a fascinating piece of science called retronasal olfaction. (Ed. What??)

In simple terms, most of what we think of as "taste" actually comes from our sense of smell. The specially designed scent pods release aromas as you drink, tricking your brain into perceiving flavour while you're actually drinking nothing more than plain water. It's an ingenious idea that has captured the imagination of millions of users around the world.

The system is straightforward. Fill the reusable bottle with ordinary tap water, pop on your chosen scent pod, and start drinking through the straw. As air passes through the pod, the natural aromas travel to your nose while you swallow, creating the sensation of flavoured water without adding sugar, sweeteners or calories to the drink itself.

One of the biggest attractions is the growing range of flavours. Fancy a refreshing Lemon? Perhaps Mango Peach, Cherry Kola, Bubblegum or even Virgin Mojito? With more than 25 different scent pods available, there's plenty of opportunity to find a favourite or mix things up from day to day. Each pod is designed to flavour around five litres of water, making them surprisingly long-lasting.

For anyone trying to cut back on fizzy drinks, fruit squash or sugary beverages, air up® offers an interesting alternative. Because you're still drinking plain water, you're hydrating without consuming added sugar or artificial colourings. Many people find that simply making water more enjoyable encourages them to drink more throughout the day.

Of course, the experience isn't identical to drinking a traditional flavoured drink. The flavour sensation is intentionally subtle, and some users report that certain pods are stronger than others. As with many food and drink products, personal preference plays a big part, with some people loving the concept while others prefer more conventional flavoured beverages.

Here at That's Food and Drink, we love seeing genuinely innovative ideas that encourage healthier habits without sacrificing enjoyment. Whether you're looking to drink more water at work, on your daily commute, at the gym or simply around the house, air up® is certainly one of the more intriguing products to appear on the drinks scene in recent years.

If you're curious, it could be one of those products that's worth trying for yourself, you may just discover that your favourite flavoured drink was plain water all along!

To learn more visit https://shop.air-up.com.

You can order the Air-Up bottles and pods, etc at our own shop, here https://link.amazon/B08z2fK6O

Wetherspoon's Craft Cider Festival is Back. Here's Why It's Worth a Visit

If you're looking for a good excuse to pop into your local Wetherspoon over the next few days, the return of the annual Wetherspoon Craft Cider Festival might be just the ticket.

Running until Sunday 9 August, the ten-day festival celebrates the incredible variety of British craft cider, giving customers the chance to sample drinks that many pubs simply don't stock during the rest of the year. 

This year's event features up to 15 different craft ciders from producers across the South West and beyond, with something to suit almost every taste.

Whether you're a traditional cider lover who enjoys a crisp, dry apple cider or someone who prefers sweeter fruit flavours, there's plenty to tempt you. Among the featured drinks are imaginative creations such as Hunts Mango & Passionfruit, Broadoak Lemon Haze, Farmer Jim's Prickly Pear, and Pulp Razzberry Rush, alongside classic apple ciders and refreshing perries. Alcohol strengths range from a session-friendly 3.4% ABV up to a more robust 7% ABV, allowing customers to choose something that suits their palate and the occasion.

One of the biggest attractions is the price. Festival pints are available from £2.99 to £3.49, making it an affordable way to discover new favourites without stretching the budget. In an era when the cost of a pint continues to rise in many pubs, that's welcome news for cider enthusiasts.

Wetherspoon has also made it easy to learn more about what's on offer. Detailed tasting notes and allergen information are available in participating pubs and through the Wetherspoon app, which also lets customers order drinks and food directly to their table without leaving their seat. It's a simple feature that makes relaxing with friends even easier.

Festivals like this are also a great reminder that cider is every bit as varied as beer or wine. Different apple varieties, fermentation techniques and flavourings produce an astonishing range of drinks, from bone-dry traditional ciders to fruity modern creations bursting with tropical or berry flavours.

If you enjoy supporting British producers or simply fancy trying something a little different, this festival is well worth exploring before it finishes. You may well discover a new favourite that you wouldn't otherwise have encountered.

And don't forget, Wetherspoon operates their Festival Three offer where you can try a third of a pint of three different ciders for the price of one pint, so you can try them without over doing it! 

So, if the weather behaves itself, why not find a sunny beer garden, order a tasting paddle over several visits—or simply enjoy a pint of something completely new? Cheers to another successful Wetherspoon Craft Cider Festival!

I switched over from my usual IPA to sample three ciders I'd never heard of and enjoyed them all!

Take the £2 Bus Challenge. Discover Great Food Without Breaking the Bank

Who says a great food adventure has to involve an expensive train ticket or a tank full of petrol?

With the Government-backed maximum £2 single bus fare available on many routes across England, there's never been a better excuse to hop on a bus and discover cafés, restaurants, pubs and hidden foodie gems you may never have visited before.

Most of us have our favourite local places to eat, but how often do we venture to the other side of town, the next village, or that market town we've driven past dozens of times?

A simple £2 bus ticket can open up a whole new world of flavours.

Why not make a day of it? Start with breakfast at a café you've never tried before, browse the local independent shops, visit a museum or park, then enjoy lunch in a family-run restaurant. 

If you're heading out in the evening, the bus is also a great way to visit a country pub, enjoy a leisurely meal and perhaps sample a locally brewed ale or cider without worrying about driving home afterwards. If you are going out in the evenings do check on the times of the last buses home.

Many rural pubs are destinations in their own right. Nestled in picturesque villages or overlooking beautiful countryside, they often serve locally sourced food that rivals anything you'll find in the city. Likewise, urban neighbourhoods frequently hide independent cafés and restaurants that deserve far more attention than the big chains.

Food tourism doesn't have to mean travelling hundreds of miles. Sometimes the best discoveries are just a few bus stops away.

You could even set yourself a personal challenge. Every month, choose a different bus route and get off somewhere you've never visited before. Search out the highest-rated café, bakery, fish and chip shop, tea room or pub and see what all the fuss is about. You might uncover the best Sunday roast, the perfect afternoon tea or an unforgettable curry just a short journey from home.

Travelling by bus also gives you the chance to sit back and enjoy the scenery instead of concentrating on the road. It's a more relaxed way to travel and can be kinder to both your wallet and the environment.

At That's Food and Drink, we'd love to hear about your discoveries. If you've found a fantastic café, cosy village pub, brilliant bakery or outstanding restaurant thanks to a £2 bus journey, let us know. Your recommendation could inspire fellow readers to embark on their own foodie adventure.

Sometimes the best meals aren't found by searching online, they're discovered by simply catching the next bus.

Mumbai Meets Mayfair: Bombay Bustle x Bunta Beer Bustle Bowls

Bombay Bustle has teamed up with recently launched Bunta Beer to give your lunch plans an upgrade - say hello to the Bunta Bustle Bowl! 

Pairing Bombay Bustle's iconic Bustle Bowls with Bunta, brewed with bright citrus notes and a clean finish crafted to complement the spice, richness and layered flavours of Indian cuisine, this limited-edition meal deal of the moment is made for every occasion, from client lunches to catch-ups with friends or a well-earned midday break. 

Bombay Bustle brings the energy, diversity and flavours of Mumbai to the heart of London's iconic Mayfair. 

Inspired by the city's iconic dabbawalas and the remarkable lunchbox network that has kept Mumbai moving for over a century, the restaurant celebrates Indian cuisine through bold regional flavours, generous hospitality and dishes designed to be shared. 

At its heart is the spirit of Mumbai itself, a city where food is woven into everyday life, bringing people together across homes, workplaces and communities.

Bunta Beer complements Bombay Bustle's modern interpretation of Indian dining, encouraging guests to slow down, share a meal and enjoy the conviviality that has always been at the heart of Indian food culture.

Bombay Bustle and Bunta Beer have joined forces over a shared passion for Indian heritage, storytelling and innovation. Guests can enjoy signature Bustle Bowls paired with Bunta Beer as part of a limited-edition lunch and early dinner menu, available Monday to Sunday.

Together, the brands are highlighting how Indian cuisine deserves the same level of thoughtful drink pairing traditionally associated with other global cuisines.

The Bombay Bustle x Bunta Beer pairing menu

MAGIC MASALA BOWL + Bunta Beer — £28

Paneer Pasanda, Til Til Aloo, Jeera Rice, Paratha & Green Chilli Pickle

GRAND PUNJAB BOWL + Bunta Beer — £30

Saag Murgh, Til Til Aloo, Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Pickle & Kachumber

COASTAL CURRY BOWL + Bunta Beer — £33

Malabar Lamb Curry, Til Til Aloo, Jeera Rice, Paratha, Lime Pickle & Kachumber

Speaking about the partnership, Bunta Beer founder Gunikka Ahuja told That's Food and Drink: “Bunta celebrates the flavours and memories of Indian culture, bringing them into London's modern dining scene. We want to redefine non-alcoholic beer as a premium, flavour-led pairing that belongs at the table.”

Chef Surender Mohan, Culinary Director at LSL Capital, (owner of Bombay Bustle) told us: "For me, it's always about flavour first. I don't drink alcohol myself, so I'm always looking for drinks that can genuinely complement a meal. 

"Bunta Beer has a clean, refreshing character that works beautifully with the bold spices and regional flavours of our Bustle Bowls. It felt like a pairing that made perfect sense.

"We were drawn to Bunta's appreciation of Indian cuisine and the thoughtfulness behind a beer crafted to complement its bold, layered flavours. Together, we are celebrating Indian flavours in a fresh and contemporary way, creating a pairing that feels approachable, memorable and rooted in the vibrant spirit of Bombay.”

And Gunikka's top bowl choice?

“I'd probably choose the Grand Punjab Bowl.

There's something incredibly nostalgic about saag. Growing up, it was one of those dishes that appeared on the table during family meals and everyone instinctively reached for it. With the freshness of Bunta alongside it, the richness feels beautifully balanced. It's comforting but still feels surprisingly light.”

Bunta Beer X Bombay Bustle runs until the end of September.

You'll find them at 29 Maddox St, London W1S 2PA

For bookings visit www.bombaybustle.com or call 020 7290 4470.

Did Somebody Say Sponge? Enjoy Summery Delights for Al Fresco Cake Eating from Sponge

Online bakery retailer Sponge has created a selection of special limited-edition summer essentials as everyone heads outside with picnic blankets and hampers to enjoy the warm weather.

Designed to be the perfect sweet accompaniment to all outdoor dining experiences, whether it’s a trip to the beach, heading off on a summer day out or simply enjoying a spot of al fresco dining in the garden, this new range of colourful sweet treats have been made using traditional techniques with a spot of fun mixed in.

Sponge is passionate for quality ingredients and ensuring there’s something for everyone with its wide selection of gluten free and vegan treats, accredited by the Coeliac and Vegan Society.

Circus Tent Baby Sponges

Roll up, roll up! Sponge’s Circus Tent Baby Sponges are coming to town.

Set to be the main attraction for the summer, these miniature yet perfectly formed sponges are getting ready to wow customers with their vibrant colours and standout flavours.

Sponge isn’t clowning around with the taste and is making summer fruits the star of the show with four delicious combinations: Lemon and the quintessentially British and classic Victoria Sponge, with Chocolate and Coffee also available.

With no need for plates, knives or even cake forks and perfectly formed as a bite-size treat, the baby sponges are ideal to pop in a hamper for a picnic, grab as a treat on a road trip adventure or serve to guests who have popped over to make the most of the brighter evenings in the garden.

The Circus Tent Baby Sponges are £15.50 for a pack of four, with gluten-free versions also available for £15.95. Purchase online via www.sponge.co.uk

But there's even more!

Strawberry Sprinkle Cake

One of this summer’s food trends in America is sprinkle cakes, or dot cakes as they’re known over there.

Sponge is way ahead of the curve and earlier this year launched its Strawberry Sprinkle Cake in collaboration with East Anglian charity Break.

The new Strawberry Sprinkle Cake features a soft, fluffy vanilla sponge with smooth, fruity strawberry buttercream and a layer of sweet strawberry jam, finished with a scattering of colourful sprinkles and for every cake sold, 20% of sales will go directly to Break.

So when deciding which cake to go for this summer for the next garden party, choose this special option which helps make a difference. 

I'm thinking of a glass of chilled Proseco to help with these, though Pimms or a nice pot of tea would be equally nice.

Sponge’s Strawberry Sprinkle Cake is available to purchase on www.sponge.co.uk for £21.99 and £23.25 for the gluten free version.

Love What We Do? Buy Us a Coffee and Help Keep That's Food and Drink Brewing!

If you're a regular reader of That's Food and Drink, first of all, thank you. And if you are a new reader, welcome!

Whether you've discovered a new restaurant, found inspiration for your next home-cooked meal, learnt about a fascinating food producer, or simply enjoyed reading about the wonderful world of food and drink, we're delighted you've chosen to spend some of your time with us.

What many people don't realise is that That's Food and Drink is an independent publication. There isn't a large publishing company behind the scenes, nor a newsroom full of paid staff. 

The site is produced by just the two of us, driven by a genuine passion for sharing great stories, celebrating independent businesses and bringing our readers interesting food and drink news from across the UK and beyond.

Running an independent blog isn't as inexpensive as it might appear. There are domain names and web services to pay for, photography and design costs, software subscriptions, travel expenses, internet services and countless hours spent researching, writing, editing and promoting every article we publish.

We happily invest that time because we believe independent publishing still has an important place in today's media landscape. We enjoy highlighting local businesses, championing family-run producers, showcasing exciting new products and helping readers discover something new.

If you've ever found one of our articles useful, informative or entertaining, and would like to help support our work, we'd be incredibly grateful if you considered buying my wife and me a coffee.

It's a simple way of saying, "Thanks for what you do," and every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue producing fresh content for everyone to enjoy.

Your support helps us keep visiting events, reviewing products, covering food festivals, discovering hidden gems and bringing you regular articles throughout the year.

Of course, there's absolutely no obligation. Reading our articles, sharing them with friends, commenting and following us on social media all make a real difference too. Every reader helps our community grow.

But if you'd like to go one step further and help fuel the next article (quite literally with a good cup of coffee!), we'd be hugely appreciative.

Thank you for being part of the That's Food and Drink family. Your support means more than you might imagine, and we look forward to bringing you many more stories celebrating the very best in food, drink and hospitality.

☕ If you'd like to support our work, simply click the "Buy Me a Coffee" button or link on our website. Every coffee helps keep That's Food and Drink publishing independent.

Discover Huel – Convenient, Nutritious Meals for Busy Lives

Finding time to prepare healthy, balanced meals isn't always easy. 

Whether you're rushing to work, travelling, working from home or simply looking for a convenient alternative to fast food, Huel has become one of the UK's most popular options for people who want good nutrition without spending hours in the kitchen.

Huel's philosophy is simple: provide nutritionally complete food that is quick to prepare, affordable and made with carefully selected plant-based ingredients. 

The range includes delicious drinks, meal powders, ready-to-drink meals, hot and savoury pots, snack bars and protein products, making it easy to find something that fits your lifestyle.

One of the biggest advantages of Huel is convenience. A nutritionally balanced meal can be ready in just a couple of minutes, making it ideal for busy professionals, students, commuters and anyone who occasionally needs a healthy meal on the go. Instead of reaching for crisps, chocolate or a takeaway, many people find that Huel helps them stay on track with their nutritional goals.

The products are designed to provide a balance of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, fibre and a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. They're also suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, with much of the range being vegan-friendly.

Of course, Huel isn't intended to replace every meal you eat. Fresh fruit, vegetables and home-cooked meals remain an important part of a balanced diet. However, having Huel available for those occasions when life gets hectic can be a practical way to avoid skipping meals or making less healthy choices.

Many users also appreciate the consistency. Every serving provides the same nutritional profile, making it easier to keep track of what you're eating. The ready-to-drink bottles are particularly useful when travelling, while the Hot & Savoury meals offer a warming alternative with minimal preparation.

Join Huel Through That's Food and Drink

We've teamed up with Huel to make it even easier for our readers to give the range a try.

Simply scan the exclusive QR code featured on That's Food and Drink to visit Huel through our exclusive link and explore the full range of products. It's a quick and easy way to discover whether Huel could become a useful addition to your daily routine.

Whether you're looking for a convenient breakfast, an easy lunch between meetings, a post-workout meal or simply a healthier option when time is short, Huel is well worth considering.

Have you already tried Huel? We'd love to hear which products are your favourites and how they've fitted into your lifestyle. Share your experiences in the comments and help other readers discover a convenient way to enjoy balanced nutrition.

My wife and I are very satisfied Huel customers. You'll be able to recognise other happy Huel users by their rather funky but discrete Huel black t-shirts, free with your first order!

North Meets South as Bristol Food Legends Join Forces

Bristol's thriving independent food and drink scene has gained another exciting collaboration, as Psychopomp Microdistillery and the much-loved Sonny Stores have teamed up to create a unique destination where outstanding spirits meet exceptional seasonal food.

The partnership brings together two of the city's best-known independent names, linking North Bristol with Southville in a celebration of local creativity, craftsmanship and flavour. 

Visitors to Psychopomp's recently reopened bar on St Michael's Hill can now enjoy a specially curated menu from Sonny Stores alongside the distillery's award-winning small-batch spirits and inventive cocktails.

It's a collaboration that feels like a natural fit. Sonny Stores has earned an enviable reputation for simple, ingredient-led cooking that lets quality produce shine, while Psychopomp has become one of Britain's most innovative craft distilleries thanks to its bold and experimental approach to creating spirits.

The new menu takes inspiration from the Venetian tradition of cicchetti – small plates packed with flavour and designed to accompany drinks. Diners can expect an ever-changing selection that celebrates the seasons while perfectly complementing the distillery's handcrafted spirits.

Tempting dishes include Pork Collar Cold Cuts, indulgent Fried Gorgonzola Sandwiches, Hot Smoked Pork Ribs with Jalapeños, and seafood favourites including Clams and Scallops with Pancetta. Larger sharing plates will also make appearances, ensuring there's plenty to tempt visitors whether they're popping in for a cocktail or settling in for a leisurely evening.

Psychopomp founder Liam Hirt, a former cardiologist who also established Circumstance Distillery, believes the partnership adds an exciting new dimension to the venue.

He says the team has always believed great spirits deserve equally great food, and that Sonny Stores' seasonal, unfussy cooking perfectly matches their philosophy of flavour and craftsmanship.

Meanwhile, Sonny Stores founder and head chef Pegs Quinn says the menu has been designed around bold flavours that work beautifully with what's in the glass, creating an experience inspired by the relaxed food-and-drink culture of Venetian wine bars.

The collaboration also highlights everything that makes Bristol's independent hospitality scene so special. Rather than competing, two respected local businesses have chosen to work together, creating something neither could offer alone while giving visitors another reason to explore one of the UK's most exciting food cities.

Whether you're a fan of expertly distilled spirits, seasonal cooking or simply discovering brilliant independent venues, this new partnership offers a delicious excuse to head to St Michael's Hill. It's a true taste of Bristol under one roof, showcasing local talent, local produce and the city's wonderfully collaborative food and drink culture.

Psychopomp X Sonny Stores 

145 St Michaels Hill; Bristol; England; BS2 8DJ.

Opening hours: 

Wednesday-Friday 12PM-3PM

Thursday–Friday 5 PM–10 PM, Saturday 6 PM–10 PM

New Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve from Bonne Maman

Introducing the first ever tropical flavour from Bonne Maman, new Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is a vibrant and exotic addition to the extensive range. 

Bursting with quality fruit, the sun-ripened sweetness of the pineapple is perfectly balanced by the subtle, sharper accent of passion fruit. 

Whether enjoyed spread generously on warm toast, as an ingredient to add an exotic twist to your favourite bakes or stirred through yoghurt, new Bonne Maman Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve brings a delicious and evocative burst of tropical summer sunshine to the table.

Bursting with juicy fruit pieces and vibrant exotic flavours, Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is perfect for summer makes and bakes. Two delicious, simple new recipes Flower Puff Pastries and Tropical Pineapple, Passionfruit & Coconut Traybake are gorgeous for many occasions. 

he pretty, flakey jam flower puffs are the perfect addition to afternoon tea, while the sunshine inspired, soft buttery traybake makes a delicious, 'cut and share' cake or easy pudding.

This exciting new flavour joins Bonne Maman's Rares and Wilds Conserve range – all made with no artificial colours or flavourings - including Strawberry & Wild Strawberry Conserve, Black Cherry Conserve, Wild Blueberry Conserve and Mirabelle Plum Conserve.

Presented in the iconic Bonne Maman 370g jar, new Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is now available nationwide from Tesco and Morrisons stores and online on Ocado at rrp £3.99.