VACCINATION centre volunteers at the Steam Museum have received free meals from Swindon’s Sikh community as a thank-you for their lifesaving efforts.

Every weekday since December 27, members of the Sikh Gurdwara temple in Gorse Hill have been cooking up dozens of delicious dinners to deliver to people who have given up their time to support the Covid vaccination rollout.

They hope to continue doing this for as long as Steam’s Great Hall is used to provide protection against the disease - and are on track to give out 2,500 meals by February.

Pharmacist Gurinder Singh described how this daily donation is part of a long-standing tradition in the Sikh faith known as Langar, a common kitchen or canteen where food is served for free and without prejudice, regardless of race, religion, and background.

The 32-year-old added: “We heard the centre was opening for longer over the festive season and thought the least we could do was to ensure they don’t have to worry about provide a hot meal to recharge their batteries.

“The NHS staff work on the frontlines day in and day out, giving up time they could have spent at home or with their loved ones enjoying the festivities. Plus, this operation would not have been possible without all the dedicated volunteers.

“When we put a callout for our own volunteers, we had so many that we had to turn people away, everyone wanted to help the NHS. These are truly trying times but we can help each other, bring the community together with a common goal and be a light in the darkness.

“I hope this togetherness, energy and positivity continues after the pandemic.”

A rota system ensures five people cook the vegetarian meals - rice, curry, flatbread, samosas, wraps - and another two deliver them to Steam promptly.

One temple volunteer said: “We have a strong community-building tradition and there is such a need for every person and every community to join in this national effort.

"We are very proud to be of service and to continue our humble efforts of support wherever we are called.”

The vaccination centre jabs around 2,000 people a day.

GP Dr Phillip Bauliah said on behalf of the Steam Museum’s vaccination team: “I want to say how grateful we are to the community for encouraging the team who have worked hard through the Christmas period.

“We are touched and honoured to be the recipients of their kindness. We know how, in spite of their busy schedules, the community has come together for this noble cause and we wish you all a blessed 2022.”