Christmas theft-hit food bank humbled by donations

Thieves used recycling bins to steal the supplies set to feed families over Christmas

A foodbank says it has been "humbled and overwhelmed" by donations after thieves stole supplies set to feed families over Christmas.

Christchurch Food Bank said it found school holiday top-up parcels, and treat hampers worth £3,500 were stolen from its store building on Sunday.

Tracy Blick, who manages the food bank said the thieves used the food bank's recycling bins to "wheel it all away."

After posting an appeal on its Facebook page, local businesses, community groups and residents have helped it re-stock.

Mrs Blick said: "They took hundreds of Christmas biscuits, cakes and chocolates that they know were going to somebody who has nothing.

Mrs Blick said: "Thank you so much.... community donations have been overwhelming and so humbling.

"Our community shines so brightly."

She added the food bank's 61 volunteers "had all come in to do extra work, re-load and re-pack the food bags, everyone has been wonderful."

Dorset Police said officers were carrying out detailed inquiries, including a review of CCTV, and its investigation remains ongoing. No arrests have been made.