The mayor of Cheltenham is encouraging local residents to continue donating to his Food Bank Fund in order to support children and families and reduce holiday hunger.

So far, the funds that have been raised through generous public donations have been used by local charities to help provide food supplies and resources to those in need.

However, since the lockdown has been eased and more people are able to get to supermarkets, donations to food banks have fallen.

Mayor of Cheltenham, councillor Roger Whyborn said: "We are very grateful for everyone's kind donations so far, but it's important that we continue to help those who are still unable to access basic meals.

"Well over 1,000 families and individuals in Cheltenham are still accessing food help every week, so for us to meet this demand, we need to keep donating and showing our support."

Below are some ways you can donate:

• Please consider setting up a small STANDING ORDER ideally weekly, to Mayor of Cheltenham's Charity Sort code: 20 20 15 Account: 00610720 Reference: MFBank
• Making an online donation though Crowdfunder at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/mayors-food-bank-fund-cheltenham
• Making an online donation to www.cheltenham.gov.uk/payments and choose 'Mayor's Food Bank Fund'. It is a great way to support people while staying safe.
• Buy Cheltenham Lottery tickets at www.cheltenhamlottery.co.uk and search for Foodbank or at 01242 396124. 50% of ticket sales go to The Mayor's Food Bank Fund, and you could win up to £25,000.
• Send a cheque payable to Cheltenham Borough Council and send it to Mayor's Parlour, PO Box 12, Promenade, GL50 1PP. Please write 'Mayor's Food Bank Fund' on the back and your address.