A RECORD number of people are turning to Mid Cheshire Foodbank for survival.

The demand for help has doubled during the pandemic.

But, thanks to dedicated volunteers and the support of the Winsford and Northwich community with donations of food and money, no one needs to go hungry.

Winsford deputy mayor and member of Cheshire West and Chester Council Cllr Nathan Pardoe is a foodbank trustee and volunteer.

The Winsford dad has seen first hand how the foodbank is providing a lifeline to struggling families and individuals.

And, he stresses, that help is available for anyone who needs it.

"The foodbank has been able to rise to the challenge of keeping families fed throughout the pandemic," said Cllr Pardoe.

"The scale is unprecedented and has roughly doubled due to Covid-19.

Cllr Nathan Pardoe, a trustee and volunteer at Mid Cheshire Foodbank

Cllr Nathan Pardoe, a trustee and volunteer at Mid Cheshire Foodbank

Cllr Nathan Pardoe, trustee and volunteer at Mid Cheshire Foodbank

"It's a privilege to work with dedicated volunteers. All of the team are fantastic, with volunteers giving and delivering food parcels, keeping stock topped up, managing the warehouse and working behind the scenes on administration, finance and policy."

Without support from the community, the foodbank couldn't operate.

" I'm especially proud of how Winsford and Northwich residents and businesses have supported Mid Cheshire Foodbank with food and monetary donations," said Cllr Pardoe.

"The causes of in-work poverty and foodbank use are national issues and foodbanks will continue to be needed long after Covid-19.

"The support of the local community is a lifeline for Mid Cheshire Foodbank and it means that we're able to provide a sustainable service.

"The most important thing to remember is that for anybody who is struggling, help is available and there's no need to go hungry.

"Volunteers are very friendly. Our big focus is restoring dignity. There is enough food available for anybody who needs it."

To seek help call Cheshire West & Chester Council help team on 0300 123 7065, Citizens Advice in the Community on 07894 238963, Cllr Nathan Pardoe and volunteer 07917 754771.

To donate or volunteer visit midcheshire.foodbank.org.uk. Food can be dropped of at many local supermarkets.