DESPITE the winter weather, worrying research has shown that older residents in the North West, including Knutsford, are opting out of hot meals and some times, skipping meals altogether.

A new survey by Wiltshire farm Foods, which delivers hundreds of meals a month to Knutsford homes, has revealed that two-thirds of people aged over 60 in the North West don’t always eat a hot evening meal.

In fact, 53pc sometimes skip a meal altogether with one in ten doing so up to twice a week.

David Rigby, at Wiltshire Farm Foods for Knutsford, said: “Grandparents are often seen as the pioneers of wholesome family meals, but just like everyone else, they sometimes don’t have the time to cook or just don’t feel like cooking or eating a hot meal.

“But as we head into winter, it’s important to understand the nutritional benefits of eating a hot meal.”

David advised older residents who say they struggle with their appetite to choose something like soup or prepare a smaller portion of casserole rather than a cold sandwich. He also advised those who find cooking a chore to stockpile portions in the freezer.

“This advice is even more important for residents over 75 as eating well later in life is the main way to keep your strength up during the cold winter days,” he added.