Andover Foodbank has revealed it has received more requests for Christmas gift boxes than ever before.

Each year, the foodbank appeals for members of the local community to donate gift boxes which are to be distributed amongst children in need at Christmas. The boxes are then given to care workers across a range of organisations who supply the boxes to those who need it in plenty of time for the big day.

Having distributed over 900 gift boxes in 2019, the charity said it had almost reached 1000 this year, with donations from the public ensuring that everyone who requested a box will receive it.

Each box contains a variety of items for the children, with the charity having asked for sweet packets, toys and gifts up to a value of £15.

Members of the public, clubs and schools were among the groups donating to the appeal. Andover FC, Ra FC and FC Salisbury all contributed boxes from amongst their members and staff.

The foodbank says its focus is now on providing Christmas Hampers for families. Portway Junior School has already provided 188kg of food towards the appeal after the school community gave what they could.

The food bank, based at St John the Baptist RC Church on Alexandra Road, is currently open Monday - Friday 09:30 - 12:30 and Saturdays 09:30 - 12:00 for people to exchange food bank vouchers or drop off donations.