Slough Foodbank is under increasing pressure as demand increases in the face of growing poverty.

Sue Sibany-King, manager of Slough Foodbank said: “We are supplying more food parcels than ever. Since the beginning of this year we have already supplied 3,171. That is a 25 per cent increase on the same period last year.

"The need is growing. Five week delays to the first payment of Universal Credit and difficulties getting ESA (Employment and Support Allowance) and PIP (Personal Independence Payment) are forcing more people into poverty. Prices are likely to increase due to fears over the unknown effects of Brexit as well as possible stock piling of foods. All of this may well be affecting donations. It is likely to make it more difficult for those on low incomes to manage."

Supporters of the foodbank 'got on their bikes' on Sunday to set off from Herschel Park on the annual Ride For Food to raise funds.

It was a 22 mile round trip in very hot weather but each participant was handed a back pack containing goodies including a cereal bar and bottle of water donated by Seriously Fun Swimming Schools as well a plastic water bottle, stress ball and cycling information.

So far over £230 has been raised with more expected in sponsorship donations. Anyone wishing to donate can still add to this via the website on https://slough.foodbank.org.uk/give-help-2/donate-money/

These funds are very welcome, as Slough Foodbank has needed to buy food in order to meet the demand. In the past it has rarely been necessary to do this as the donations from local community have met the need.