LAUNCESTON Foodbank had a busy week in the lead up to Christmas with several local stores and companies providing items.

With further uncertainty on the horizon, food banks are undoubtedly going to be crucial in the coming weeks.

First up, the Launceston Foodbank’s general manager, Yvonne King, received a visit from Gemma Massey on behalf of the town’s Co-op stores on Western Road and Broad Street.

There were also visits from Launceston Commercials who are based next door to the foodbank on Newport Industrial Estate, with plenty of goodies for their Christmas hampers as well as a visit from Moo Free in Holsworthy who supplied a number of dairy-free Advent calendars.

Sam, manager of the Co-op supermarket on Newport Industrial Estate also came along with his weekly helpings of unsold fruit, veg, bread and cakes.

There was an incredible donation of £3,000 from local company R H Claydon Ltd who are distributors of tyres, wheels and tubes.

Alec Mist, sales manager for the south, visited Yvonne with part of the donation with the rest coming early in the new year.

Finally, after a plea from the Foodbank for more toiletries, Launceston Lions donated with their president Christine Rowe doing the honours.

In a statement the Foodbank’s general manager Yvonne said: “We knew it was going to be busy as Christmas approaches, but wow what a week we have had at Launceston Foodbank.

“We have been humbled by the donations made to us by the amazing people of Launceston; individuals, families, churches, schools and businesses.

“On the other side, we have helped over 50 people this week alone with food and toiletries and delivered nearly 90 Christmas hampers to help ease the worry many people have as Christmas looms. As well as the food we have given parents toys, games and gifts for their children.

“My personal thanks to our committed staff and wonderful volunteers who have gone above and beyond these last few days.”