A former Aberdeen FC captain and a city businessman have stepped in to save a school breakfast club from closure.
Dozens of children are enjoying the likes of Milkshake Mondays and Waffle Wednesdays before they head to their Seaton School classrooms for the day.
Previously held at a nearby community centre, the Big Breakfast scheme was, however, at risk of closure following staffing changes.
But a joint effort from the Russell Anderson Development School (Rads) and Terry Cobban, the chairman and managing director of Ace Forwarding, means it will stay afloat for at least the next year.
Every morning, the children are given a free healthy breakfast before taking part in activities led by Rads.
The youngsters have praised the “really yummy” food and the fact they can play together before starting the school day.
Anderson, who racked up more than 300 appearances for the Dons before retiring in 2015, said: “We realised there was a danger of the breakfast club not being able to continue and we wanted to lend our support.
“Exercise first thing and a good breakfast can really set the children up for the day and help them in the classroom.
“The teachers have all noticed what a difference this has made to their behaviour and performance.
“But if it wasn’t for Terry at Ace Forwarding, I don’t think we’d have been able to do it.”
Following coronavirus guidance, the children eat and play in set groups, but are permitted a brief period where they can all mix together.
Pupil support assistant Caroline Russell said: “It’s really great and the kids seem to love it and socialising with others.
“They’re getting to run about in the fresh air and work off some of that excess energy before they come into class.”
Head teacher Ashley Verling said the club is helping to raise attainment levels and build community relations.
She added: “It is incredibly important for children and young people to have a healthy breakfast before starting their school day.”
Terry Cobban, meanwhile, said he had “no hesitation” backing Anderson’s plea for help.
“For some youngsters the breakfast club offers them the opportunity to get food before they start their school day, as well as participating in some fun activities,” he said.
“This project will most definitely have a positive impact on the local community, particularly in these challenging times.”
