Co-ordinator Jim Campbell, who has volunteered at Friday Fridge for all 15 years it has operated, said: “When the pandemic meant our churches had to be closed, it was down to the hard work, persistence and goodwill of some great people – including our associate minister and the bishop – to enable us to stay open, and switch to a takeaway mode.

“The need for this became apparent very quickly, as the number of guests doubled, and we also heard all sorts of stories from them – about being unable to eat at mum’s house when the food ran out, being unable to get an ‘emergency’ sub from dad because dad was isolating, of sofa-surfers being unable to continue to use those sofas. Some people were unable to access benefits, to find casual paid work, or even to find anyone on the streets to beg from. So it was a privilege to be able to help in a small way.

“Our volunteers have been incredible, taking what we all accepted were real risks to be there for the sake of others, and turning up week after week to make this work.

“Roll forward another 20 months or so, and Friday Fridge is delighted to be returning to a café style, with hot food cooked to order, time to sit with and talk with our guests, with a live, optional Bible Study, available. There will be extra space available, because of larger numbers and social distancing, and enhanced cleaning, to keep people safe.

“It’s great that we can go back to a format that allows us to chat properly, as building relationships is at the heart of what we want to do. We’re open to all, regardless of need or status. But we understand why some people want specific help from us, perhaps because they feel less valued elsewhere.”