A VOLUNTEER at a foodbank is urging members of the public to still continue to donate items amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Trussell Trust which runs over 700 food banks in the country, has noted a fall in donations of both food and money since the start of the pandemic.

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Martin Ham, spokesman for Ledbury Foodbank, said: “We still reply on donations from the public.

“A local company has given money towards our work.

“Food bank use has gone down at the moment and we are not sure why - use is sporadic at times anyway.

“Thankfully, the nice weather means people waiting can at least do so in pleasant circumstances.”

However, as we have reported before, the foodbank has seen a drop in volunteer numbers as many are vulnerable and stay away to look after their health.

Mr Ham added:“We suddenly find that most of our volunteers are 70 and above.

“However, a new group of younger and very able volunteers has come forward; they work incredibly hard.

“Our new regime has devised a system whereby we can issue food and still comply with the Government’s social distancing two metre rule. “

Ledbury mayor, councillor Phillip Howells, said: “This pandemic emergency has shown the power of local communities to respond magnificently to supporting their fellow residents when needed and this is no more apparent than in Ledbury.”

In 2019 the food bank provided food for about 55-60 people every week, in two sessions, on a Wednesday and a Friday, up nearly 50 per cent on 2018. This month, the Ledbury branch provided food for 75 people on one Wednesday alone.

And the Bosbury branch which only opened in October last year, is now feeding 15-20 per week.

Ledbury Foodbank also distributes toiletry items to people in need.