ORGANISERS behind the Ely Foodbank have been “overwhelmed” by the generosity of the public, with more than three tonnes of food donated in little more than a fortnight.

An appeal for food was launched by the Foodbank team in the Ely Standard late last month and, at collections held at Waitrose, Tesco and Sainsbury’s in the city, the public responded to the call, donating vast quantities of food.

Schools, churches and community groups have also heeded the call and the proceeds from a number of harvest festivals across the city have helped pack the food store, in Barton Road - ready for the opening tomorrow.

Rev Karl Relton, chairman of Ely Foodbank’s formation group , said: “We have had a fantastic response, we have received more than three tonnes of food which has wowed everyone involved.

“Churches, schools, people and supermarkets have been really generous and have really got behind the cause. We have been astonished.

“We have had a tremendous number of volunteers commit their time and energy to helping out and we are looking forward to getting started.”

An increase in poverty and hunger in the Ely area was the driver behind Churches Together in Ely planning the formation of the Foodbank back in late April and now, six months later, they are almost ready to start helping those in crisis need.

Alan Williams, from New Connexions Church in High Barns, who coordinated Ely Foodbank’s development work, said: “We endeavour to work with and alongside our potential clients. So the way we are set up as an is the way we seek to work, and to serve those in crisis.”

The doors will officially open on Friday, with people in need of the service being referred to the facility through the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Homestart, Care Network schemes, local churches and housing associations.

To volunteer your help or to make a donation to Ely Foodbank please e-mail: info@elyfoodbank.org.uk