WHITCHURCH Foodbank will close its Bargates centre in line with government advice on COVID-19, adopting a home delivery instead.

With supermarket shortages, there has been a marked increase in the demand for support from Whitchurch Foodbank, in line with increases across the country.

In view of the government's advice on social distancing and the need to protect the most vulnerable, the Foodbank's management team has made the decision to close its centre at Bargates Hall to clients.

Foodbank manager Alan Scutt says people who still require their service will now have food delivered to them instead.

"From this week onward, rather than collect food and other items themselves, clients will have these delivered by volunteers directly to their homes," said Alan.

"All referrals to the Foodbank are made by professionals who determine the needs of individuals and then request support for them.

"A huge amount of food has been supplied to clients recently and this has meant that many items are in short supply as most people are finding similar shortages in local stores.

"However, there has been a wonderful response to the Foodbank's request for help.

"Many people have consulted the Foodbank's website to identify shortages and have either delivered them directly to Bargates Hall or have dropped them at the local supermarkets' collection points.

"There have also been several very generous donations of money from local organisations and individuals for which the management team are most grateful.

"Several people have also offered their help in delivering food around the area which is also a tremendous gesture under the current circumstances."

To see what items the Foodbank requires or to sign up, visit www.whitchurch.foodbank.org.uk