Take-up of free school meals has increased by 35 per cent since 2007 and this rise has been praised by the School Food Trust.

Councillor Joan Kirkbride (Con, Bugbrooke), cabinet member for children and young people said: "These figures are fantastic news. We have smashed our target of 10 per cent and week by week the number of children having free school meals is increasing.

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

"I would still 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."

The county council started its drive to improve healthy eating in schools and help children get the right food in 2006. A total of 7,486 children now have free school meals, compared to 5,539 in January 2007. Anyone who thinks they qualify for free schools meals can call Northampton 236656.