An appeal has been made urging residents to remember the Foodbank when writing your shopping lists.

The Dover branch of the national charity gave out more than 20,000 meals in Dover last year, which is their busiest year to date and a third of recipients were children.

Last week a total £50 was given by Labour councillors in a bid to support the group and raise awareness of its work.

Councillors John Heron, Sue Jones, Pam Brivio and Peter Wallace, met with two organisers, Jon Wheeler and Noel Beamish after their daily session had closed in the Beacon Centre, near London Road.

Mr Wheeler said: “We are so appreciative of the continued generosity in Dover from people giving in churches, donations from local businesses and people donating in supermarkets.

“It’s phenomenal and the amount we continue to receive is staggering, though sadly we need it.”

“We gave out almost 20,000 meals in Dover alone last year and this year looks to be even busier. Our website shows a list of the 10 items we urgently need.”

Mr Wheeler has suggested people putting the Foodbank on their shopping list so donors can pick just one item when shopping.

The cheque was presented by Cllr Pam Brivio, who has previously met with the Dover Foodbank to find ways to support them.

She said: “It’s hard to believe that 20,000 meals were given out in Dover last year, and this is a major problem which the government and the council can play a major part in changing.

“Our Labour group is going to ask for our Town Council to play a bigger part, even by letting people know they can donate items at Maison Dieu House.

n The 10 most needed items are sugar, tinned fish, noodles (but not instant noodles), long life fruit, dried milk, can openers, washing up liquid, deodorant, toilet rolls and dog food.