A local café proprietor in Hastings, known for providing free meals to underprivileged children following the removal of food vouchers, has been threatened with police action by a council leader. Barry Ashley, who operates the Grumpy Cook, took action in response to East Sussex County Council’s choice not to distribute school holiday meal vouchers to struggling families. Criticizing the council’s decision as “shameless,” Ashley accused them of neglecting children in poverty.
Council leader Andy Woolley has warned Ashley of potential police involvement, claiming to have faced personal online attacks. Woolley accused Ashley and Labour MP Helena Dollimore of inciting hate and violence by naming him in their criticisms. The disagreement stems from the council’s halt in providing essential vouchers to families in need, prompting Ashley to offer complimentary meals at his non-profit café.
Amidst the debate, local businesses have contributed to support Ashley’s initiative, resulting in over 70 free meals being served daily. Dollimore launched a petition demanding the reinstatement of vouchers, condemning the council’s actions as “completely unacceptable” and endangering children.
Ashley emphasized the high poverty rates in Hastings and the importance of ensuring children receive proper meals. Expressing dismay over families going hungry, he shared instances of mothers sacrificing their own meals for their children’s well-being.
Despite the council’s claim of insufficient government funding to continue voucher distribution, Ashley and Dollimore argue it was a political decision. Woolley defended the council’s stance, highlighting the allocation of funds from the Crisis Resilience Fund for targeted assistance to vulnerable families. He clarified that no police action has been taken against Ashley or Dollimore at this stage.
