West Berkshire Community Larder relaunches in Thatcham

A much-loved local initiative has relaunched this week under a new name, as Thatcham Community Larder becomes West Berkshire Community Larder.

The relaunch was marked with a ribbon cutting ceremony led by Thatcham mayor Petra Pemberton, celebrating the next chapter for the volunteer-run project at Frank Hutchins Hall.

Still based in Thatcham, the larder continues to offer affordable access to surplus food while bringing people together in a welcoming, community-focused space.

Run entirely by volunteers, the larder opens every Wednesday from 1:30pm to 4pm. For £4.50 per week, members can select around 10 grocery items along with a range of fresh fruit and vegetables. The food is supplied through networks including SOFEA and FareShare, helping to ensure good quality surplus food is shared rather than wasted.

But the larder offers more than just food. Visitors can also access a donations table with household and children’s items, a clothing rail, and additional support such as cat food provided by Cats Protection and sanitary products supplied by All Yours.

There is also a strong focus on wellbeing and connection. During term time, seated chair-based exercise sessions run between 2:30pm and 3pm, and the team regularly hosts visits from West Berkshire Council’s Let’s Talk team, offering advice and support.

Throughout each session, the hatch is open for hot drinks, biscuits and cakes, giving people a chance to sit down, have a chat and feel part of the community.

Organisers say the aim remains the same: to support local residents, strengthen community ties and reduce food waste across West Berkshire.

You can find West Berkshire Community Larder at Frank Hutchins Hall, Bradley-Moore Square, Harts Hill Road, Thatcham.

More information is available via their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/people/West-Berkshire-Community-Larder-Thatcham/61588154590011/