Rutland nutritionist Jane Clarke uses her expertise to support people during the coronavirus pandemic after working on high profile campaigns with Jamie Oliver and David Beckham

A cordon bleu chef who has supported celebrity food campaigns is bringing her focus closer to home.

Jane Clarke has donated hundreds of nutrition drinks to three Rutland charities in a bid to keep people healthy during the pandemic.

The drinks contain all the calories, protein and nutrients needed from a normal balanced diet.

Jane only launched the Nourish range in December but was keen to play her part in helping people through the coronavirus crisis.

The donation of 1,200 drinks was split between Rutland Foodbank, Root and Branch Out and the St John and St Anne’s Almshouses.

Jane said: “In times like these it is important for people to see and feel that society cares, not just through words but through tangible actions which make a real difference.

“We really believe in the work these amazing organisations are doing and hope this is just the start of three wonderful relationships.”

Jane, who lives near Rutland Water, was influenced by her great aunt’s passion for cooking and learnt the science of food from her father, who was a chemistry teacher.

She studied dietetics at university and was the first dietician and cordon bleu chef to set up their own practice in the UK.

Jane went on to work with celebrity chef Jamie Oliver on his school meals campaign and advised David Beckham on nutrition at his football academy.

Much of Jane’s inspiration comes from spending time in hospital as a teenager where she recalls being served terrible food.

Seeing some patients served “blended mush” inspired her to make a change.

Jane said: “I wanted to bring beautiful food to people in those difficult situations.”

The Nourish drinks she created are part of that mission, but will now help to ensure Rutland people are well nourished during the coronavirus pandemic.

Jane said: “Our mission is to nourish so we felt it was befitting to donate our drinks to fantastic groups who are supporting Rutland residents struggling in the current climate.”

Chairman of Rutland Foodbank, Alison Wainwright, said: “We are delighted to receive this generous donation. It is important that we support our clients with nutritionally balanced foods to help them maintain their wellbeing during a difficult time.”