A three-day collection at the Tesco superstore in Paulton has resulted in more than two tons of food being donated for those in need across the Somer Valley this Christmas.

The Somer Valley Foodbank, which last year celebrated its 10th birthday, has received the huge donation to bolster its efforts in providing emergency food parcels for those in need during the festive period.

The social welfare project, which was originally established as a collaboration between local churches and community leaders, is nestled under the charitable status of St John’s Church, Peasedown St John, and heavily relies on the generosity of the public to keep stocks replenished.

Church leader Revd Matthew Street said: “We’re incredibly grateful to our team of volunteers who spent three days at Tesco last week collecting food from generous shoppers.

“Every donation made this Christmas means we can help an extra person in need who would otherwise struggle to put food on the table over the festive season.

A total of 2,007kg of food, to be exact, was collected in more than 200 crates. This means our four distribution centres across the Somer Valley can continue to feed, help and support our community’s most vulnerable.”

The foodbank, which runs food distribution centres in Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Paulton and Peasedown, has been at the forefront of helping some of the local area’s most needy ever since its doors opened.

The foodbank provides three days of emergency food to people who need it the most. Professionals such as health visitors, social workers and the Citizens Advice Bureau identify people in crisis and issue them with a foodbank voucher.

The voucher can be taken to a foodbank distribution centre where a friendly team of volunteers will offer a cup of tea and help people with their food needs.

Somer Valley Foodbank says on its website: “We are extremely grateful to all those who are continuing to give food and financial donations during this extraordinary time.

“While we may not be able to thank each and everyone of you personally, your support enables us to continue helping the most needy in the community at this difficult time and is very much appreciated.”

For more information about the Somer Valley Foodbank visit their website at www.somervalley.foodbank.org.uk.

Alternatively, people can email [email protected] or call 07729523986