East Renfrewshire residents are being invited to host a community celebration to help them get to know others who live in the area.

The Eden Project Big Lunch has brought millions of people together across the UK on the first weekend in June every year since 2009.

Organisers hope that every cup of tea shared with a neighbour and street party held as part of the initiative will help to raise community spirits.

Jennifer Carroll, who was formerly programme co-ordinator at the Neilston Development Trust and is now Eden Project communities lead in Scotland, is encouraging local people to sign up to host their own event.

She told the Barrhead News: “It can be from as simple as inviting folks to share a cup of tea and cake in the garden to perhaps something larger, where everyone brings along some food to share.

“Nothing is too big or small and can be done on a very low budget.”
Last summer, more than 17 million people across the UK got together through the Big Lunch, with many positive impacts felt by those taking part.

“The Big Lunch is about community, sharing, friendship, food and fun,” added Jennifer. “It helps people to feel less lonely, get to know their neighbours and go on to get more involved with their community, all from sharing a bite to eat and talking.”

This year, the Eden Project is also running a competition to find The Friendliest Street in the nation.

The winning community will have a pollinator and people-friendly garden paid for and installed by the Eden Project team, receive a Big Lunch hamper worth £250 and get £2,500 to support their next community project.

The contest also celebrates the organisation’s Big Coronation Lunch, being held in May.

To find out more or to nominate your community, Visit edenprojectcommun
ities.com.