More children eat school dinners

The campaign to boost school dinners has been hailed a success

An extra 600 children have begun having free school meals after a drive by a county council to improve healthy eating to assist learning.

Northamptonshire County Council started its campaign in 2005 to increase the take-up rate for free school meals, with a target of a 10% rise by 2009.

A council spokesman said the number had increased by more than 9%.

Cabinet member for children and young people Joan Kirkbride said she was delighted with the achievements so far.

"It's so important we give children the best possible chance in life by ensuring they eat good nutritious food to assist their learning.

"These figures are very encouraging and prove our drive to increase take-up is definitely working.

"I would urge all those people who think they are entitled to free school meals to get in touch and ensure through healthy and nutritious food, their child is getting the best out of their school day."