Parents and teachers have donned their aprons at lunchtimes at Beacon Hill Primary School to keep pupils fed because of staff shortages.

Surrey County Council-run catering firm Twelve15 has been unable to replace kitchen staff at the school, forcing others to step in.

MP Jeremy Hunt has promised to address the issue with Surrey County Council leader Tim Oliver.

He said: “Parents and staff have been great and tried to muddle through which is not ideal – but hugely appreciated.”

A Twelve15 spokesman said: "Twelve15 is working to resolve the significant staff sickness absences it is experiencing at Beacon Hill School as quickly as possible.

“There has been no break in meal provision, since the issue arose the school is being provided with compliant cold-packed lunches and the hot meal service is scheduled to resume with effect from Monday, October 30 when we expect to have sufficient resources available to be able to safely prepare, cook and serve.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate the school’s patience.”