HIGHBRIDGE and Burnham-on-Sea foodbank is in desperate need of donations after 'unprecedented demand' for food parcels has left supplies running low.

The foodbank hauled in a huge collection just before Christmas in 2016 but say increased demand is wittling away their vital supplies. 

Bev Milner Simonds, trustee of Highbridge and Burnham Foodbank, said: "We are asking local people to add one or two extra items into their shop and donate them to the Foodbank to help local family in need.

"At the moment we are running very short of jam, fruit juice, tinned tomatoes, tinned potatoes, small bags of sugar and any donations of toothpaste and shower gel would be very much appreciated."

Trustees at the foodbank were thrilled earlier this week when they received a donation of 72kg of surplus food from the RSPCA centre in Brent Knoll.

Sonja, a volunteer at the RSPCA, said:"The 'P' in RSPCA is all about prevention and there are much loved pets in caring homes whose owners are struggling a little and need some support to feed all members of their family."

The foodbank is asking residents to give donations to St John's Church or Hope Baptist Church in Burnham-on-Sea or to Burnham-on-Sea Methodist Church. 

Donations can also be accepted at Burnham-on-Sea Tesco. 

Those who are interested in the Foodbank's work are invited to attend their AGM on Thursday 9 May at 7:30pm at the Hope Baptist Church in Highbridge. The AGM will review the final usage figures for the year, annual accounts and elect a new Chair.