More than 1,000 people have been fed by the Gravesham food bank in the last eight months.

More people are asking for help as finances continue to be stretched.

Tesco in New Road, Gravesend, held a drive for the food bank, which is run by the Trussell Trust.

Staff member Kelly Simmons said: “The food we’re collecting here goes straight back into the community and Tesco will top up the donations by 30% on top of the total amount of food donated.

“We’ve had fantastic support here and it’s surprised me because we held one at Christmas and things have got worse for everyone since then so the generosity of people has really been amazing.”

Staff agreed to come in on their day off to help out members of the food bank encourage people to donate.

There are three banks in Gravesham: St Paul’s United Reformed Church in Singlewell Road, Gravesend Methodist Church in Milton Road and RCCG Life Start Connections in St Clement’s Close.

People are given a voucher – by doctors, Citizens’ Advice Bureaus or social services – and go along to the centres where it is redeemed for three days’ emergency food.

Food Bank project manager David Idowu added: “I’m not surprised by the donations. People understand what we’re doing.

“In the last eight months we’ve fed over 1,000 people locally and all of this food collected here will be going straight to them.

“It’s been very busy here today and it really shows the British spirit. Everyone has been really supportive. I’ve been inspired by people’s generosity.”