Foodbank ransacked in 'act of mindless vandalism'

The foodbank in Boxford was ransacked over the weekend

A church foodbank which acts as a "quiet lifeline" for families-in-need has been ransacked by vandals.

The pantry, in the North Porch of St Mary's Church in Boxford, near Sudbury, was targeted over the weekend, with the contents of food packets and tins emptied outside.

The incident has been reported to the police.

Liz Potter, who is the Box River Benefice Administrator, told BBC Suffolk the attack had left a lot of people "very angry and disappointed".

"We are there to provide some hope and support to those in our community that need it and, for many families, our foodbank is vital," she said.

"So it is very frustrating and sad, and it is distressing that it is upsetting other people in the village – it is just a pure act of mindless vandalism.

"There's a lot more to do in life than to destroy food, so please leave us and our foodbank alone."

The "considerable mess" has since been cleared up

Ms Potter said there were reports that tomatoes had been smeared on cars and tampons left on doorsteps following the vandalism.

"It's just a reminder that one act of harm does shake everyone and has repercussions throughout the community," she added.

"We are reviewing what we are going to do, but we do have food in stock so if the foodbank is empty please contact me and we can prepare a bag for you."

Suffolk Police has been contacted for comment.