HERALD readers have been thanked for their generosity in donating goods to Tamworth's Foodbank appeal – as the last carload of food items donated by readers was collected from our offices.

Arriving to pick up the food, Rev Steve Jonathan, who heads the town's appeal, revealed that a staggering 1,000 days worth of food had so far been distributed to the needy in Tamworth.

Steve said: "I would like to thank the Tamworth Herald for making their readers aware of what we are doing.

"As a result, we're receiving donations from many sources, including people who just turn up at the Manna House centre with bags of food.

"Because of the Herald's coverage, many people experiencing hardship have been given hope that there are people 'out there' who can help them."

Tamworth's Foodbank was launched in October last year, and just four months on 1,000 days' worth of food have been provided to individuals and families in crisis.

Steve added: "Tamworth Foodbank is a project for the people of Tamworth by the people of Tamworth and the response has been terrific.

"We find it both hugely rewarding and humbling to be able to help support the people of Tamworth in this practical way.

"The Foodbank project would not be possible without the dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers from St George's Church and the Elim Church in Glascote who give of their time and efforts so freely."

Individuals and families in need are referred to Foodbank by various partner agencies, including schools, churches, charities and statutory bodies.

Around 40 different referral partners are now signed up to the scheme and can hand out vouchers entitling an individual or family to three days' allowance of free food.

The charity is run from the Manna House Coffee Shop in Glascote.

The Herald is no longer acting as collection point for FoodBank, although we will continue to provide updates on the charity.

Anyone who wishes to donate to Tamworth Foodbank should contact 01827 302434 or drop food off at The Manna House in Glascote Road on either Monday or Friday between 12.30pm and 3pm.

Herald editor Gary Phelps said: "While we will no longer be acting as a collecting point for FoodBank, we will continue to support the efforts of this excellent charity and we would like to thank our readers for their generous donations."