CHILDREN entitled to free school meals will be served during the Easter holidays.

The unprecedented move will allow pupils from across the region to collect a lunch from Monday to Friday during both weeks.

And education chiefs are also opening up their kitchen service to any other families who are struggling because of the coronavirus crisis.

Meals will be ready at Burnfoot, Jedburgh, Chirnside, Newtown, Earlston, St Ronan’s, Wilton, Langlee, Broomlands, Melrose, Eyemouth, Philliphaugh, Halyrude and Duns primary schools as well as Galashiels Academy.

A spokesman for the local authority said: "Any child who is entitled to a free school meal can walk to one of these locations to collect a lunch.

"Younger children should be accompanied by their parent/carer but please remember Scottish and UK governments’ social distancing guidance

"Some children and young people who live outwith a reasonable walking distance to a Childcare Hub will have free school meals delivered.

"Should your family not be entitled to free school meals but are currently struggling during these difficult times, please contact us via email Covid-19Schools @ scotborders.gov.uk or phone 0300 100 1800 and we will aim to support you and your family."

Meals will be available for collection between 11.30am and 1pm.