ORGANISERS of a foodbank set up in what is regarded as one of the wealthiest areas of the North say they see no end to the need after distributing over 4,000 parcels since setting up in 2013.

Hambleton Foodshare was launched in Northallerton by a group of churches and other agencies backed by Broadacres Housing Association to meet a growing need for emergency help to provide food for people in financial crisis.

They offer assistance across the district, with a distribution centre in Northallerton and collection centres across the town as well as in Bedale and Thirsk..

Chairman Michael Webster said: “There is a perception in an area like Northallerton that there won’t be a need, but we operate week-in, week-out.

"Often it can be for people on zero hours contracts, or who have problems with benefits, the switch to universal credit has caused issues, families can be just a couple of pay days away from a crisis.

“It is very hard sometimes for people to come. They say they never thought they would have to do this because they feel a sense of failure, so often it is out of their control. The saddest thing is we don’t see an end to the need.”

Initially people are referred by other agencies, although people can go to the Foodbank themselves. The aim of the scheme is to provide a three-day emergency food parcel for each family member.

Mr Webster added: “We are here to help them have a chance to turn things around. We are not here to provide long term food supplies. The aim is residents can come up to six times.

“People are very generous in supporting us but we look for the day when there is no need for Hambleton Foodshare. Given the situation there is a sense of gratitude that our communities are responding.”

The group need tinned and dried food with soup, fish pasta and rice the main staples. Tinned meat pies and puddings are a help as well as long life milk. Te group also appeals for financial donations to help buy emergency supplies such as nappies.

Hambleton Foodshare is open from 4pm to 6pm on Mondays at the Zion Church Hall in Northallerton High Street. They also have mobile teams, and welcome volunteers.