ONLY the best fresh food will be served to pupils at Halton’s first freeschool, says Sandymoor School head teacher, Andy Green-Howard.

He was defending criticism from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, who fears standards in freeschool kitchens could deteriorate as they do not have to follow the same strict guidelines as other schools.

Mr Green-Howard, aged 43, said: “We believe passionately in the ‘whole child’. We are committed that the food we serve is not only wholesome and nutritious, but is also sourced as locally as possible.

“We are looking to recruit a catering manager to ensure that the meals we provide meet high standards.”

Sweet chilli chicken or macaroni double cheese, with rice, and bean and mushroom pie or mixed bean tagine with new potatoes and peas or mixed side salad are among proposed options.

Sandymoor School, founded by five Runcorn parents, is due to open with 80 year seven pupils in temporary accommodation in Wharford Lane, in September.