MP Marie Rimmer visited a makeshift food bank in Sutton which has delivered hundreds of food parcels to the community since launching in December.

During the pandemic, many people have lost their jobs due to the coronavirus crisis, leaving families short of cash and unable to buy the food they need.

With that in mind, Sutton Parish has established an independent food bank inside St Michael's Church of England Church on Gartons Lane, where families in need can attend each Sunday for a parcel of food and items they need.

This was the idea of pastoral assistant Sam Rigby, who saw the need in the area.

On Sunday, February 21, MP for St Helens South and Whiston Marie Rimmer, visited the church to watch them in action on their busiest day, where they distributed 55 food parcel.s

Sam Rigby said: "'It was fantastic to welcome Marie Rimmer MP to the Sutton Community Foodbank at St Michael's Church last week.

"We were able to show Marie our operation in full swing on our busiest day yet. During Marie's visit we distributed a total of 55 food parcels.

"Marie also met several of our volunteers, encouraging us in our work and reminding us of the importance of meeting the needs of our community.

"Demand for food parcels from our foodbank is growing every week and we are currently exploring new ways of meeting the needs of our community in addition to our foodbank project.

"To keep providing this vital service at a time of great difficulty and financial uncertainty for so many, we are always in need of more donations.

"If you are able to donate any food or other non-food essentials like toiletries or nappies, please bring them to St Michael's Church, Gartons Lane, WA9 4RB or contact the foodbank mobile number on 07765 736199."

Deliveries of parcels can also be arranged by the same number for those in Sutton only.