AN innovative healthy eating scheme in Jaywick is set to smash its targets.

The Fresh and Fruity project was launched by the health trainer team run by community healthcare provider Anglian Community Enterprise (ACE).

It was hoped the scheme would help almost 100 low-income families with young children this year, but has already more than doubled that figure.

The scheme sees vouchers for £600 worth of fresh produce given to families in need.

ACE health trainer co-ordinator Alix Sheppard said: “The Fresh and Fruity project has gone from strength to strength.

“There was previously poor access to reasonably priced produce in Jaywick, but the project is making it much easier for people to meet the five-a-day message.

“If people are unable to collect from one of the stop-off points, we may now be able to deliver in the Jaywick area.

“We link with local producers and allotment projects where possible to provide as much locally-grown, reasonably priced produce as we can find.

“We are in the process of putting the finishing touches to plans to offer cooking sessions with ideas on what to do with vegetables and how cooking such dishes can save money.”

The Fresh and Fruity van tours Jaywick every Thursday offering low-cost fresh fruit and veg.