Northamptonshire food charity concerned over rise in demand

A Northamptonshire charity has raised concerns about a sharp rise in the number of people using its services.

Northampton Food Bank, which supplies non-perishable foods to families in crisis, said demand was high.

The charity has already given out 106 food parcels this year compared to a total of 80 in 2010.

Volunteer Samantha Rajagopal said: "We have had a marked increase in the referrals from agencies like Connections and the Mayday Trust."

The charity said that the increase may be due to other charities disappearing.

"People are having to find other ways of getting help," said Ms Rajagopal.

There are two food banks in the county, in Northampton and Daventry, which supply goods given to them by churches, charities and businesses.

A food parcel consists of items like baked beans, tinned meats and dry goods like pasta and rice.