Yorkshire Building Society in Chester has become an official collection point for West Cheshire Food Bank.

The Bridge Street branch has called on shoppers to pick up an extra item when they’re at the supermarket to help feed some of the city’s most vulnerable people this winter.

Instant coffee, teabags and cereal are amongst the most urgently needed items but the food bank, which is part of a national network run by The Trussell Trust, also needs tinned vegetables, soup, pasta and other non-perishable foods.

Louise Gregory, customer representative at the Yorkshire’s Chester branch, said: “A food parcel can mean the difference between a family starving and being able to enjoy a nutritious hot meal. We desperately want to do what we can to help the food bank support people this winter.

“The items the food bank needs aren’t expensive but could make a huge difference so please donate what you can to our appeal.”

West Cheshire Food Bank provides a lifeline to people in crisis by providing them with three-day emergency food parcels as well as practical support and advice.

Last year it gave out more than 5,000 food parcels to the most needy in the city to prevent them from going hungry.

Alec Spencer, development officer at West Cheshire Food Bank, said: “Crisis can hit anyone. Children and adults in all 46 wards in Cheshire West have turned to food banks. Most people struggle with benefit delays, changes and sanctions and because of low-paid, insecure work.

“Winter brings particular challenges for people living below the poverty line and many have to choose between heating and eating. Please give what you can to help those most in need.”

For more information regarding the West Cheshire Food Bank visit www.westcheshire.foodbank.org.uk .