A FOODBANK was left with almost empty shelves on Saturday after thieves broke in and stole toiletries, coffee, and tins of meat and fish.

But the community has rallied round, with an alarm company beefing up security at Thornaby Foodbank, which is independent and run entirely by volunteers, and kind-hearted locals increasing donations.

Lesley Collinson, of of the foodbank's operators, said thanks to the increase in donations she was hopeful that there would be enough food to put together parcels for this Thursday, when they are next handed out.

The foodbank has seen use increase to up to 100 parcels this year, although demand has dipped back recently to 50 or 60 parcels a week.

Mrs Collinson said there was a forced entry into the hall area overnight on Friday into Saturday.

"They have mainly taken tins of meat and fish, jars of pasta sauces and some toiletries, coffee, the more pricey items," she said.

"A local businessman who runs ACS alarms has very kindly secured the premises and installed a new alarm system.

"Mostly I am very sorry that someone has felt that they had to do that. Our foodbank is run by volunteers from a variety of backgrounds and we all have a policy of being non-judgemental.

"I am just so thankful that we have been absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity of the public."

She said the foodbank would be open as usual this Thursday when volunteers will share whatever they have for the three-day parcels that they provide.

The popular cafe will also be open, serving meals to foodbank attenders while they fill out forms.

Volunteers are always in need of tinned meat and fish such as corned beef and tuna, tinned fruit, jellies and toiletries as well as pasta sauce, coffee and tea.

Mrs Collinson said they had plenty of tinned beans, which were untouched by the intruders.