STAFF and volunteers at the city's network of food banks have launched a final festive push for items users desperately need in the run-up to Christmas.

The five basics banks laid on each week by Southampton City Mission - at churches in the city centre, Sholing, Bitterne, Shirley and Lordshill - are running as usual until Friday and there's still time to donate as you stock up on your Christmas shopping.

Basics Bank Manager Vicky McKillen said residents had been particularly generous as Christmas approaches, but demand continues to increase as people struggle with the cost of living.

Daily Echo:

The most urgently needed items are tinned cold and hot meats, coffee, tinned fish, coffee, sugar, tinned carrots, tinned macaroni cheese, pet food for cats and dogs, treats, toiletries, nappies size 5 and above and vegetarian and vegan items.

Items can be donated at drop-off points in 12 supermarkets and convenience stores.

The Daily Echo has teamed up with the charity for our Christmas campaign Boost the Bank.

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