Derbyshire mum thanks England and Manchester United star Marcus Rashford after her 'happy boys go to bed with a full belly'

Beth Fretwell, from Barlow, tweeted to say her "happy boys” would be “going to bed with a full belly” after they received a food parcel from Chesterfield FC’s Community Trust, which is providing free school lunches for those in need during the October half-term break following Rashford’s bid to extend free school meals over the holiday.

“Lost my job, barely make ends meet moved from a emergency temporary house to a permanent house (hence no carpets) thank you @spireitestrust and @MarcusRashford for making sure no child goes hungry with your campaign,” Beth’s post read.

It has since been liked more than 4,000 times, with dozens of people getting in touch to offer their support.

Beth added: “This is the first time since being 15 I’ve been out of work and I can tell you it’s been hard to make ends meet but I’m not in any way ashamed to hold my hands up and ask for help if I need it!

"No one should be it’s okay to need a helping hand.”

The 22-year-old striker from Manchester, who has won plaudits for his tireless campaigning throughout the pandemic, picked up on Beth’s original post, tweeting: “Thank you @spireitestrust.”

Beth replied: “I never put this on for any kind of attention, I was just so grateful that my boys didn’t have to go to bed wondering were there [sic] next meal was coming from! There is no shame in asking for help!!

"My 7 yo a huge United fan said when he’s a famous footballer he wants to be like you.”

Chesterfield Community Trust tweeted: “If one photo could sum up why this entire project is worthwhile, then this is it.

“Thank you so much for getting in touch Beth, so glad that we could help.”

Just over 23,800 children are eligible for free school meals across Derbyshire.

Many businesses and community organisations are now offering meals to those in need – visit schoolmealfinder.org for more information.