In a stunning display of efficiency that would make a pit crew jealous, volunteers have spent over 1,000 hours rescuing 34 tonnes of uneaten food from the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Since Sunday, about 50 helpers from Roade and Towcester's Community Larders have been shuttling back and forth from the Northamptonshire racetrack, offering up items like eggs, milk, fruit, vegetables, and - because why not? - a carpet at pop-up shops.

Katie Steele from the Towcester group reported 'record attendances,' estimating the groups had helped about 3,000 people. The collections ended on Friday, made possible by 'absolutely amazing teamwork.' On Monday alone, volunteers processed 12 tonnes of food waste, and the number kept growing. Teams back at base weighed and sorted each collection before holding pop-up food shops throughout the week.

Steele noted that by Wednesday they had 18 tonnes, handing out fruit, eggs, bread, bacon, butter - 'really great food.' On Monday, 450 people showed up to the first pop-up sale, up from the usual 350. Normally operating a membership scheme with discount prices, the larders opened the Silverstone food to all. Volunteers worked until midnight on Monday to serve everyone, ending up 'literally on their knees' and soaking their feet in ice blocks.

Steele emphasized the importance of opening to the wider network to avoid waste, adding, 'We've tried to reach as many people as possible.' The haul included disposable plates, cling film, toilet rolls, and a carpet donated to a family with no upstairs carpets. Steele clarified that unused goods from the Formula 1 event can't be taken with them, so they're left behind. Despite the heatwave, she said, 'They never complained about how many hours they gave.'