A foodbank, that helps the most needy families in Trowbridge, has made a desperate appeal for food donations.

The Storehouse Foodbank, based at the United Church, has issued its plea as it struggles to keep up with requests for food and household supplies from hard-up people.

The organisation, set up in 2006 by the West Wilts Vineyard, has been running a foodbank referral centre from the buildings in Church Street, where it has fed 2,000 people and handed out many more meals.

Co-ordinator Veronica Shaw said: “People who need our support have found themselves in difficult circumstances, often through no fault of their own.

“They may have been made redundant or have lost work through severe illness. Some are attempting to rebuild their lives after the breakdown of a marriage or partnership. They could be recovering from domestic abuse.”

Local MP Dr Andrew Murrison has also appealed for people to help out.

He said: “Foodbanks are telling me demand is increasing, a sign of recession.

“Administrative delays in processing benefit claims are not helping, either.”

People are being urged to drop off donations in a trolley at the foyer of the Asda store in Trowbridge.

People in need can access supplies if they have been referred by a professional, such as a teacher, social worker or key worker.

The organisation feeds a vulnerable person for three days and also offers advice on cooking simple dishes.

It also acts as a point of contact to get them help with other personal issues.

Mrs Shaw added: “People come here and we can offer them help. The demand has increased hugely recently. If we had more donations, we would be able to help even more people.

“We have a huge effect on people’s lives. It is much more than just about giving out food.”