MasterChef Semi-Finalist Helps Launch Newquay Foodbank’s New Store

There was a MasterChef semi-finalist working the kitchen at a Newquay foodbank on Wednesday, plating up beef and veggie enchiladas and fruit crumble for a room full of guests. And every ingredient came from the shelves a few feet away.

Frankie Dunn, a semi-finalist on MasterChef 2026, came along to the launch of The Stores, a new community shop opened by Newquay Foodbank on Wednesday 17 June at Age UK on Crantock Street. She has a personal connection to the project too.

What The Stores is for

The idea behind The Stores is to help people move on from free emergency food support. It offers an affordable, supplementary food shop alongside practical help with things like budgeting and wellbeing, plus a welcoming place to sit. It is open to registered foodbank members and people in temporary accommodation.

Members can pre-pay for a weekly top-up shop, choosing from fresh, tinned, chilled and frozen goods.

Fliss Pearce, the project lead, said it matters to see people who have needed help take steps back towards independence.

“It is important at Newquay Foodbank to see people who have needed our help take steps towards regaining their independence through a wraparound approach that begins with a dignified shopping experience,” she said.

“Alongside this, people can seek guidance from other support organisations on matters such as health and finances or simply call in for a cuppa and a natter.”

📷The Stores Project Manager (left) Fliss Pearce and Newquay Foodbank’s Director Zoe Nixon chat to Newquay’s Mayor Cllr Drew Creek at the launch of the community pantry.

The MasterChef connection

Frankie Dunn is Fliss’s sister. She came along on opening day to cook a meal entirely from goods available at the pantry.

“I believe everyone should have access to good quality, healthy food that doesn’t cost a fortune and I hope to inspire people by cooking a tasty meal from goods they can find at The Stores,” she said.

What members made of it

People at the opening said the experience felt like they were “actually shopping” rather than visiting a foodbank. Several mentioned the fresh food and vegan options as a bonus, and the chance to pick up things they had not been able to treat themselves to for a long time.

Joao said: “I love the variety and choice, and I will definitely be back as this will be really good for me.”

Jan Rogers, who has volunteered at the foodbank for five years, said many people can find themselves reliant on it.

“Introducing the community store gives them the opportunity to break away from foodbank dependence and the chance to budget their money while becoming more independent and self-sufficient,” she said.

📷Long term volunteer Jan helps out to make the launch of The Stores a success for all.

Backing from the town

The Mayor of Newquay, Cllr Drew Creek, was among the guests finding out how The Stores will run.

“We know we have people in Newquay that are struggling and this will help them and the many children who are below the poverty line,” he said.

“This volunteer supported service is one I am very happy to champion.”

The Stores will open every Wednesday, supported by the foodbank’s volunteer team, Age UK staff, and partners including FareShare South West and Your Local Pantry.

Newquay Foodbank has a Crowdfunder running until 26 June to help keep The Stores going long term. Donations can be made at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/newquays-community-pantry.

📷The Stores Project Manager (left) Fliss Pearce joins her sister and MasterChef 2026 Semi-Finalist Frankie Dunn in the Age UK Hub kitchen as she gets ready to create a meal for guests and members on launch day.