BEAVER Scouts from Parkend organised a collection for the Forest Foodbank as part of a challenge for one of their badges.

The 1st Royal Forest colony planned the collection as part of their My World badge which challenges them to work with a local organisation.

There were also collections at local Tesco stores as part of a national initiative with almost 2,000lb of food donated at the Lydney store.

Beaver leader Marnie Fewtrell said: “As part of our My World badge you need to help the community and we thought the Foodbank was a good cause, particularly at this time of year.

“We discussed what the Foodbank was all about and lots of the children knew already, which was very good to hear. 

“The parents were very kind with their donations, which again was great.

“I had read in the paper recently that foodbanks were very keen for spices and seasoning, so I went through my cupboard to find all the un-opened – and in date – seasonings to add to the box.”

The beavers took their donations to the Foodbank at the Catholic hall in High Nash, Coleford last week.

Foodbank manager Chris Hedges said: “We are very grateful for all the donations we receive which help families in crisis.

“At Christmas the demand ramps up a lot.

“Last year (2015-16) we fed around 3,000 people and gave out 23 tons of food.

“So far this year it is around 1,600 people but that number will increase in the winter.”

Staff at the Lydney branch of Tesco hosted a two-day event to support the Forest Foodbank.

Forest Foodbank spokes­person, Sandi McDonagh said: “The total donated food was nearly 900kg (1,984lbs) which is an increase on July, which was only just over 600kgs (1,323lbs), plus we have to empty the Foodbank bin in Tesco every couple of days.

“A big thank you to Tesco, the churches, schools, Co-op and individuals for their generosity at this festive time and throughout the year.

“The need in the Forest is continuing and we are investigating the ways in which we can extend

our coverage of the Mitcheldean area.

“As well as food, we give out seasonal goodies, toiletries and pet food and have Green Square Housing advice counsellors in attendance.”