KIDDERMINSTER Town Council has agreed to provide £2,000 in financial support to the warm hub that has recently opened in the town centre.

At a recent meeting, the council considered a proposal from councillor David Ross following a request to several town councillors from the Weavers Wharf Centre Manager Jackie Roberts to provide some assistance.

Kidderminster Mayor Kevin Gale said: “While I would wish that wider economic situation was not as it is, so that we would not have to consider providing support for such things, it is a regrettable reality at this time.

"Having opened the hub with Jackie Roberts on Wednesday and experienced the recent weather, I fully appreciate the need.

"I was encouraged but certainly not surprised by the full-hearted support of the council to provide some financial assistance.

The hub, which is located at the former Shoe Zone shop on Vicar Street, is currently open Monday to Saturday between 10am to 3.30pm.

Councillor David Ross said: “While the original request from Jackie to the council was for some spare furniture, cutlery and some advice it was clear that more was needed and that not everything on her shopping list might be obtained by donations.

"I am pleased to note that the town council had already offered use of spare furniture and equipment.  I am most grateful for the initiative shown by Jackie and the flexibility of the owners of the property (Nuveen) that is being utilised who appear to be forgoing the rent & picking up all other building costs".

Jackie Roberts the Weavers Wharf Shopping Centre Manager said: "The first few days have gone very well & the hub has been well received by the community as a whole.

"The very generous grant from the town council will allow us to purchase a cash register & extend our offer from hot drinks to basic hot food from the beginning of January 2023".