A FOODBANK in west Dorset has issued a plea for support after saying it was running low on donations.

Beaminster Foodbank has said it requires donations to support people who use the facility on a regular basis.

Vouchers for food, as well as donations, are required for the service which has proved a vital resource for the local community amid the cost of living crisis. 

Last year the service provided 319 parcels (a rise of 43%) and supported 748 individuals (up 27%) across 2022. Demand continues to be high for the service which has said it is feeding twice as many families in the area than it was this time last year.

In a statement, the service said: "We are getting low in donations at Beaminster Foodbank. We would really appreciate either vouchers purchased at the butchers or the greengrocers or donations of food via the Co-op, Yarn Barton or church collection boxes. 

"We are feeding double the number of families compared to this time last year and so we would really appreciate your support."

The service is open two days a week at the Prout Bridge Building in Beaminster (DT8 3AY). The bank opens between 10 am and 12 noon every Monday and Friday. 

For those wishing to use the service, they can do so by visiting in person or calling the foodbank on 07434 654652.

Users will be asked to fill in a form so that a package can be arranged for them depending on their dietary requirements or the quantity of food needed to cater for them.

The service supports residents of Beaminster and the local areas.

The cost of living crisis has seen more people across the country using food banks as bills and food prices soar. 

In nearby Bridport, a foodbank has had to extend its opening hours earlier this year to two days a week compared to one due to the influx of users.