A FOOD bank which fed more than 300 people last Christmas is appealing for donations to bring seasonal happiness again to struggling families.

Caldicot Foodbank is asking for typical festive items such as tins of fruit, jelly, Christmas puddings, cake and mince pies, and orange squash or Ribena.

Last December, the Foodbank catered for more than a third of their annual total over the festive period, with children accounting for nearly half.

Foodbank chairman David Flint said: “Last year we found a lot of single parents struggling with debt as they tried to ensure their children wouldn’t miss out.

“In addition to food items, we’re buying the children some games and books, and are attempting to provide each adult personal items like hand cream and aftershave, in addition to our usual food parcel,” he added.

Food drop off collection points may be found in local churches, local supermarkets —Asda, the Co-op and Waitrose— Caldicot Library, and Caldicot Town Council’s offices in Sandy Lane.

Thanks to the congregation of the Church of St Stephen and St Teilo in Caerwent, the Foodbank will this year also be able to invite clients to a free Christmas Day lunch at 1pm at Caerwent Village Hall.

Those wishing to find out more about the meal should contact Kay Denley on 01291 408217.