THE Co-operative store in Okehampton has agreed to a three-day collection for the Okehampton Foodbank, which is still seeking out food gifts and donations.

Demand for food parcels is still high, with the foodbank handing out more than 150 parcels in June, July and August.

The Rev Barry Walton, who helps to run the foodbank, said: 'For five of the last six months, Okehampton Foodbank has given away more food than it has received. This has only been possible because each month we have had to buy food in order to restock the warehouse.

'For the last three months, we have had to spend nearly £900 per month, so that we can continue to respond to the requests for help.

'We have given out more than 150 parcels in June, July and August, which has fed 276 adults and 136 children under 16.

'Back in February and March we were responding to the needs of the former employees of Polestar. Now we are responding to the needs of those who are struggling to manage because benefits have been delayed, or because the benefits are insufficient when a gas or water bill arrives, or because an essential car needs repairing.

'The Okehampton community has been incredibly generous in the past and we believe this will continue even when times are tough.'

The Co-operative has agreed to hold the collection outside its store on Thursday October 6 to Saturday October 8. All donations will be welcome.

Gifts of food can also be delivered to Okehampton Baptist Church on a Friday between 10am and noon, or to OK Leisure on Fore Street during shop opening hours.

Foodstuffs ideal for donation include tinned goods, potatoes, fruit, vegetables, corned beef, pasta and pasta sauce. Gifts of money, which will pay for much needed food, can be sent to Okehampton Baptist Church c/o the Rev BL Walton, 18 Limehayes Road, Okehampton, EX20 1NX. Cheques should be made payable to 'Okehampton Baptist Church - Foodbank'. Okehampton Foodbank is there to help anyone in genuine need. Visit the Baptist Church on a Friday between 10am and noon, or call 0800 978 8563.