Foundation trustee flips burgers for school kids

The Exeter Chiefs Foundation dished out food and drink to more than 800 pupils, parents, guardians and staff at an Exeter school.

Celebrity chef Michael Caines MBE (above left) joined fellow trustee and charity chairman Tony Rowe CBE (above right) to serve up hot dogs, burgers, pasties and jacket potatoes.

They were joined by staff from Lympstone Manor, the Chiefs' catering team and Michael's' Exeter College academy.

This was the second year running that the rugby club’s charity has been able to stage a Feeding The Community event and it took place at Woodwater Academy, which is part of the Ventrus Multi Academy Trust.

Headteacher Rachel Olivant said: “The pupils, families and staff had such a fantastic time, it really was a special event for them to remember and we fed so many people.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in making the afternoon such a success.”

Local suppliers provided food and beverages including Darts Farm, Goosemoor, MJ Baker, Bidfood and Ryders Bakery.

Michael said: “It was such a rewarding experience and only made possible by the people who put their hands in their pockets on match day, the Foundation XV businesses and the multitude of fundraisers who regularly boost our charity coffers.”

The Feeding The Community event follows a campaign at Christmas which saw the foundation feed more than 1,000 in a joint initiative with Exeter food Action.

Tony added: “Since December 2022, Exeter Chiefs fans and followers have helped the charity to feed almost 4,000 people as part of our winter and summer campaigns. On behalf of my trustees I would like to say a huge thank you for your generosity and support. You are making a difference to people’s lives and helping us to create memories that will last for ever. I’d also like to thank our suppliers who played their part in making the day so special.”