A food bank helping struggling families in west Dorset is helping far more people compared to last year.

The vital work of Beaminster Food Bank, which supports those in need, was explained when a special visitor, Dorset's High Sheriff George Streatfeild, dropped in.

He was told that such is the demand for its services that an extra area at the Prout Bridge Building where it is based has been taken over for storage.

Around 400 people have been supported in the period from January until now, which is said to be a 30 per cent increase on last year’s numbers.

The food bank is open on Mondays and Fridays to give those needing extra support for their families or for themselves. Working with Nick Tett Butchers and Fruit ‘n’ Two Veg, the service provides not only canned and packaged groceries, but also fresh meat, fruit and veg. Morrisons provides long life goods and the public contribute to boxes both in local shops and St Mary’s Church.

The food bank, now run with the support of the of the Beaminster Team Ministry, is open to anyone in need living in Beaminster and the surrounding villages.

Families can contact the food bank team directly or are referred by other organisations and professionals such as Citizen’s Advice, schools, doctors and health visitors. The team is anxious to make sure that as many people as possible know about the resource and how to contact them.

Call 07434 654652 or email beaminsterfoodbank@gmail.com

Call in advance to arrange for a food parcel.

* The food bank has taken up further space at the Prout Bridge Building previously occupied by the youth centre. Sadly, the youth centre has not been able to operate since lockdown, but leader Paula Tuff is working on plans for greater outreach to the villages in the Beaminster area, and to increase her school activities. Funding will be needed to allow the centre to remain in Beaminster.

Paula and her dedicated team of trustees are beginning to get plans together to open up the building again, but also to take it onto a more permanent footing with a bespoke charity to support the youngsters in Beaminster and surrounding villages.

For more information about Beaminster Food Bank and the youth club visit www.proutbridgeproject.com