AS the festive season is fast approaching, Hambleton FoodShare is urging the community to consider supporting their ‘12 days of Christmas giving’ appeal.

The food bank's aim is to help provide a Christmas parcel for those who are struggling during the festive period.

Following the appeal's launch on Wednesday, residents are being asked to add one item per day to a box or bag, or donate online, up to November 30.

Chairman Michael Webster said: “We are running the appeal during November so that our volunteers have time to organise the parcels and deliver them in plenty of time for Christmas.

“Christmas is a time for giving so why not help the most vulnerable members of our community?

"Unfortunately, as we find ourselves in another lockdown, things are not getting any better and we are still as busy.

"We need help to feed those in need and to spread a little bit of Christmas cheer.

“We would like to provide parcels containing normal shopping basics and cleaning materials plus a few Christmas treats so that hopefully the recipients will have a bit of spare money to buy a few Christmas presents or items for their Christmas dinner. ”

The food bank is most in need of items such as tinned meat including corned beef, toiletries, tinned fruit, washing detergent, and Christmas chocolates and sweets.

Mr Webster said: “Whilst we do not like to say no, our shelves are overflowing with pasta, pasta sauces and tins of tomatoes, fish, soup and beans."

The volunteer-led food store is still open every Monday between 4pm and 6pm at The Living room, Garthway Arcade in Northallerton but only one customer is permitted at a time due to Covid restrictions.

Bags and boxes can be collected by calling 07514-244158.

Donations can be made through online at hambletonfoodshare.enthuse.com/#!/