An Exmouth mum has thanked a local man for his generosity after getting a free lunch for her son at Littleham Community Fridge.

She left a note to local business owner Ben Reid, who was serving hotdogs, telling him she felt 'tearful' she couldn't afford one - but became 'elated' when he gave it to her for free.

The note, pictured, read: "I went from tearful stood in the queue knowing I couldn't afford one for my son to elated as you were kind enough to donate back. So massive thank you."

Ben was inspired to give after using Littleham Community Fridge himself a couple of times to get food when he found himself unable to access government cash because he had set up his street food business just before the first lockdown in 2020.

Business is now starting to boom for Ben, but he is still 'acutely aware' of how the national cost-of-living crisis is affecting people.

He said: "I wanted to show my gratitude for the help I received, and I contacted [Rev Sam Burnett, who set up Littleham] Community Fridge. He was more than happy for us to come and provide a free lunch for service users.

"I also contacted Claire Austin from Exmouth Friends in Need, and she brought a family of 10 for some food. In total, we served lunch for around 50 people.

"Whilst I expected no thanks, I received a wonderful note from one of the ladies who attended with her family that put a bit of a lump in my throat and made me feel that my gesture was worthwhile, and that it highlighted an ever growing need, in difficult times for everyone. 

"I intend to repeat the process a few more times during this year."

Are you struggling to pay the bills? Littleham Community Fridge can be found in Bidmead Community Centre, Bidmead Close, Exmouth. You can follow them on Facebook here.

Local non-profit organisation Exmouth Friends in Need can also provide support.