• Ashby charity has been operating for almost seven years

•Other foodbank sessions are held in Woodville and Measham

Ashby Foodbank will be operating in the build-up to Christmas from the Congregational Church, Kilwardby Street.

The Foodbank will open twice a week, on Tuesdays between 9.30-11.30am, and on Fridays, between 2.30-4.30pm.

It is an active charity which has been serving the community for almost seven years now.

As well as two sessions a week in Ashby, there is one in Woodville (Stephen Church

Moira Road, Thursdays, 9.30-11.30) and another in Measham (Measham Library, Thorpe Road, Friday, 10-11.30).

The work done there was explained by the Rev Catherine Booton  who said: "Last year we gave out around 16 tonnes of food to people in need.

"We are part of the Trussell Trust foodbank network and have people referred to us for help by agencies including health care professionals,  schools, churches,  council,  Citizens' Advice Bureau, and others who hold our vouchers.

"We help those who are struggling because of an emergency and deal with issues caused by factors ranging from low income, illness, benefits issues, changes in circumstances and so on.

"We can help up to three times per emergency so we don't provide long-term ongoing support but aim to work with referrers in supporting the clients to make a difference in their lives.

"We run with a team of volunteers and all the food we distribute is donated by local people."

However, the foodbank will not be operating on the following dates: Foodbank Dates over Christmas/New Year Ashby – 24th December  Open Woodville – 26th December  Closed  Measham – 27th December  Closed Ashby – 27th December  Closed, Ashby – 31st December  Closed.