Yvonne, CEO and founder of UKHarvest was joined by Andreea, Co-manager at Nourish Hub, James Swann, Head of Programmes and Simon Thresher for a ceremony of giving thanks for food and the harvest festival.

Organised by Love British Food, the National Harvest Service took place this year at Westminster Abbey where Her Majesty Queen Camilla, UKHarvest's patron, attemded the hour long celebration of community, food and raising awareness that we should all have access to healthy local produce, no matter what our circumstances.

The service fell on World Food Day, an FAO awareness day, now in its 80th year. The theme this year was Hands in Hands for Better Foods and a Better Future, emphasising the needs to secure a sustainable food system for all.

James attended the service and said that 'It was an honour for UKHarvest to be involved with such an impactful and emotive service. We are grateful to Her Majesty The Queen, for continuing to support the work we do. The National Harvest Service highlights the importance of our role within the existing food system, while helping to share the vital message of ensuring access to healthy food for all. Thank you to Love British Food for including us in the National Harvest Service."

Director National Harvest Service and Founder and CEO, Love British Food, Alexia Robinson shared that “It felt very fitting indeed that UKHarvest was part of the National Harvest Festival at Westminster Abbey, particularly as your Patron, Her Majesty inaugurated the first National Harvest Service when HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, as part of Love British Food’s campaign to rekindle the tradition of celebrating the Harvest.  What a joyous occasion, with the most wonderful sense of togetherness.  I hope the service, prayers and hymns have bolstered everyone’s resolve to continue to help those experiencing hunger and suffering as we head into the harsh winter months.  All you and your volunteers do is remarkable.  I am so pleased that the service shone a light on this.”

If you or your organisation would like to work with UKHarvest through donations of time, food or finances, please visit ukharvest.org.uk/donate.