THE number of residents using the Romsey foodbank has almost doubled since it opened in 2016.

Figures revealed by the charity which supports people in Romsey and the surrounding villages show that 642 residents were supported between 2016 and 2017. But according to data, 1,215 residents used the foodbank between 2017 and 2018.

Romsey foodbank manager Jo Topley said the foodbank has been “frightfully busy” in December 2018 and particularly the week before Christmas.

Ms Topley said many families in and around Romsey rely on the school meal as the only hot meal their children have during the day and she has now welcomed £1,800 donated by local councillors Celia and Alan Dowden.

But she said that more needs to be done to support people in need in and around Romsey and has confirmed that the foodbank team will look into keeping the foodbank open from Monday to Friday rather than Wednesdays and Friday.

Ms Topley said the increase in the number of users is due to a series of factors including changes in the benefits system and Universal Credit. She said the foodbank will be working alongside schools to ensure that families are fully supported.

North Baddesley councillor Celia Dowden presented Ms Topley with £1,000 from Test Valley Borough Council community grant. ounty councillor Alan Dowden also donated £800 to the charity.

The foodbank is open on Wednesdays at the centre at Unit 20, Romsey Industrial Estate, in Greatbridge Road from 10.30am to 12.30pm and on Fridays at the Community life Centre in North Baddesley from 10am to noon. For donations visit romsey.foodbank.org.uk.