Celebrity chef Kevin Woodford is encouraging people to raise funds for Christian Aid’s work with the poor by holding a soup lunch with friends.

The Super Soup Lunch on 26 March invites people to ditch the usual sarnies and serve up a bowl of soup instead for themselves and friends, relatives or colleagues. A donation is then collected from everyone who joins them.

People are being encouraged to take part whether they like to make their own soup or feel happier cracking open a tin of ready-made.

“Whether you regularly make your own soups, or are a dab-hand with a tin opener, we need you to get involved in Super Soup Lunch,” said Woodford, much loved for his enthusiastic appearances on Cant Cook Wont Cook, This Morning and Ready Steady Cook.

“Get together with friends in your work canteen, at school, or the local café and enjoy your lunch knowing you are helping Christian Aid raise thousands of pounds so people in developing countries can make a better life for themselves.”

Christian Aid has put together a free fundraising pack for people wanting to take part at www.christianaid.org.uk/super-soup-lunch