A charity is inviting Stoke-on-Trent locals to join them for fish and chips as part of a national celebration of community and volunteering.

The Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) is hosting a 'Big Lunch' at the charity's Hanley Centre on 5 June - which is also Stoke-on-Trent Day - as part of the The Big Help Out weekend 2026 (5 to 8 June).

Running from 11.30am to 2pm, the event aims to bring local people together and inspire community volunteering over traditional fish, chips and peas (costing £4.50) served by volunteers in the RVS Hanley Community Centre cafe.

Helen Podmore, Service Manager at the RVS Hanley Centre, said: "We're really looking forward to welcoming people from across Stoke to join us for our Big Lunch celebration on the 5 June.

"Moments like The Big Help Out and Big Lunch are a wonderful opportunity for people to come together, meet new faces, enjoy good company and feel more connected to their local community.

"Whether you come along with friends or on your own, everyone will receive a warm welcome and we'd encourage anyone interested to join us."

The Big Help Out, which launched in 2023, is a nationwide initiative which aims to inspire people to lend a hand locally and discover the benefits of volunteering.

The campaign has now joined forces with Eden Project's Big Lunch to create a weekend event to foster community spirit and positive action.

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At the Hanley Big Lunch, locals are encouraged to discuss community volunteering and anyone interested in volunteering at the centre, can drop in to chat to the team.

This year, Royal Voluntary Service's digital volunteering platform GoVo is the official volunteering platform for The Big Help Out, helping people discover opportunities in their local communities.

People interested in joining Royal Voluntary Service for the Big Lunch in Hanley can simply turn up on the day, and enjoy fish and chips for £4.50. Those interested in volunteering with the centre can visit the GoVo website here to find out more.