Nine tonnes of beans, soup and other food tins have been collected to help people in Kent relying on food banks.

The final weigh-in for kmfm’s Tonnes of Tins campaign 2024 revealed a record-breaking number of products donated.

Between July 8 and August 11, the team managed to secure 9.21 tonnes of groceries thanks to the kindness of listeners.

Over the five weeks, items were dropped off at 13 locations across Kent - including kmfm’s Medway studios - and thousands of pounds fundraised online via a JustGiving page.

While a target of £5,000 was set, when the page closed on Friday, August 9 it had received £7,480 which has “exceeded expectations”.

Director at Margate Independent Foodbank, John Finnigan, said: “I would say that the number of people needing help has doubled. The community is suffering.

“This donation is going to make a big difference, and all I can do is say thank you.”

During the breakfast show, presenters Rob Wills and Chelsea Little announced the results of the food drive which has been held in partnership with local businesses across the county.

They served as drop-off points, making it easier for listeners to donate.

Mike Harman, of Bargain Warehouse, Folkestone, said: “We understand the struggle, and this is about giving back to the community.

“It’s been quite an eye-opener to see how much people have donated – this will make a massive difference.”

Sam Horak from sponsor Discount Tile and Bathroom Warehouse, Gravesend, said: “Thank you to everyone who has donated tins.

“As a community, we’ve come together to help those in need during these uncertain times.”

Last year more than six tonnes were collected by kmfm for food banks – for context, approximately 2,400 420g tins of beans or similar food items equate to one tonne.

Rob, who is head of broadcast at the station, said the team truly did not expect to beat last year’s total.

He said: “When we reviewed last year’s receipts, we found that most of the food we bought this year had increased in price by around 12%.

“Combined with the ongoing cost of living crisis, our goal was simply to collect and distribute as much as possible. To reveal this total today is absolutely jaw-dropping.

“I want to thank everyone who donated, shared, delivered, and spread the word about this campaign. A special thanks to our partners across Kent—without them, this would not have been possible. We look forward to Tonnes of Tins 2025.”