GENEROUS shoppers at Tesco in Stow have donated more than a tonne of food to the North Cotswold Food Bank.

The collection on December 1 and 2 was part of the national appeal, Help Feed People In Need, which took place at 900 Tesco stores across the country with the help of food charity Fare- Share and the Trussell Trust.

Shoppers in Stow donated a wide range of food items with many customers bringing some festive cheer to the appeal by buying mince pies and Christmas puddings.

James Milton, manager of the North Cotswold Foodbank, said: “We were amazed at the generosity of shoppers at Tesco last weekend.

“Some people donated carrier bags or baskets full of food. The North Cotswold Foodbank would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated. Christmas is looking a little brighter for families in crisis as a result.”

Suzanne Hawkesford, manager at the Stow store, said: “We’re delighted the people of the Cotswolds have come out to support this vital cause.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by customers generosity and hopefully the food collected this weekend will go some way to help people less fortunate this Christmas.” Meanwhile, the Moreton branch of the Cotswold Conservative Association has donated £500 to the food bank after raising the money through a Christmas party, held at the Manor House Hotel, Moreton.

Branch secretary Margaret Banks, who organised the party, said: “We are so pleased to be able to help the North Cotswolds Food Bank, particularly at this time of the year.”