WIRRAL foodbank's manager has praised the public's overwhelming support after figures revealed a shocking rise in numbers needing its help during the pandemic.

Richard Roberts said that, at the height of the coronavirus crisis, more than 14,000 people had used its services.

Paying tribute to the public's help, he told the Globe today: "The support of the local community has been incredible this year.

"2020 was a challenging year for everyone.

"Covid has changed the way we all live, self-isolating, maintaining a safe distance, wearing a mask etc. 

"What has not changed is the generosity of the people of Wirral with food and financial donations. 

"In 2020, we received 201 tonnes in food donations. Wirral is the community that continues to give."

Wirral Foodbank continued to operate during the first lockdown, working with Wirral Council and other local charities through the Emergency Food Hub, to support the most vulnerable in our community. 

The Food Hub has been re-instated to make sure vulnerable local people don’t go hungry during the new national lockdown. Wirral Foodbank has joined forces again with Wirral Council to coordinate food collection and emergency food distribution at the Hub.  

The Food Hub will be a key part of a new coordinated referral system with Wirral Foodbank.

All requests for emergency food will be managed through the Council’s Coronavirus helpline (tel. 0151 666 5050). 

Richard Roberts continued: "Once again we will be consolidating our efforts at the Emergency Food Hub to help vulnerable people get through the weeks ahead.

"By working together, we have the best chance of ensuring local people do not go hungry during these challenging times. 

"Thank you to our wonderful staff and volunteers and the people of Wirral for their continued support during this difficult situation.”

Wirral Foodbank is still accepting donations at many supermarkets across Wirral and direct at our Warehouse, Unit 14, Wirral Business Centre, Dock Road, Birkenhead, CH41 1JW. 

Details of how you can support their work or donate online is available on their website at www.wirral.foodbank.org.uk.