MALVERN Hills Foodbank is launching its Christmas appeal a little early this year, with the support of mayor Cynthia Palmer.

The mayor visited the foodbank to see how each donation is checked, dated, sorted and stored prior to distribution. She also met some of the volunteers and clients who were using the centre at the time.

She said: "My visit opened my eyes to the wonderful service it provides to needy families in Malvern.

"Every one of us could fall on hard times and then we would need food and household items to support our own families. Please give generously to this appeal so that everyone can enjoy Christmas."

As always, the foodbank provides emergency donations for people in crisis, and Christmas can be an extra difficult time for clients.

Following last year's Christmas Appeal, the trustees and volunteers were overwhelmed by the response and generosity of individuals, businesses, church groups, schools, families and children's groups. The only problem was making sure that all the wonderful donations were distributed in time for Christmas.

Peter Buchanan, chair of the trustees, said: "The people of Malvern astounded us last Christmas with their kindness.

"At times, we could barely move in the warehouse as donations kept arriving minute by minute. This year, knowing how hectic it was, we are encouraging people to send their donations in as soon as possible. This will allow us to make up the many Christmas boxes that we provide, as well as distribute all the essentials that our clients need."

The collection points for donations include Waitrose, Lyttleton Well, and churches in Malvern and Upton-upon-Severn.