A MACHYNLLETH councillor has welcomed the news that Powys County Council has performed a U-turn after being dubbed Scrooge-like following a decision to scrap the traditional Christmas dinner.

The council had come under fire after announcing it would not provide a traditional Christmas dinner in school canteens and would instead give youngsters a sandwich, pizza finger and breaded coated chicken or vegetables, claiming it was a necessary cost-cutting measure.

However, after a major backlash, including a petition that attracted around 6,000 signatures, the council has backed down and said it will provide a traditional meal although will charge parents an additional 70p for the Christmas meal.

Machynlleth councillor Michael Williams welcomed the U-turn and said he was pleased that council chiefs had reconsidered the initial decision after the backlash.

He said: “I very much welcome the decision to reinstate the Christmas dinner for those who to have it. I believe it’s a common sense decision.

“It’s perhaps unfortunate that discussions weren’t held before the original decision was announced.

“I’m very pleased that those who made the decision on the Christmas dinner have reconsidered and revisited that decision.

“I’m sure all the families and children themselves will welcome that.”

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