Iliffe Media's Suffolk News and Bury Free Press team have been thrilled with the response to their festive foodbank appeal, which will help to feed around 100 local families this Christmas.

Dozens of bags and boxes filled with food and gifts were donated by readers during the six-week appeal, these will now be made into festive hampers by Gatehouse charity volunteers and given to those in need.

Charity CEO Amanda Bloomfield said: “It is really great to see the community coming together to help those in need, especially at the moment.

“It makes a really big difference to those that need it.”

Items donated by readers of Iliffe Media's Suffolk titles included more than 100 tins and jars of non-perishable food, dozens of new children’s toys and clothing and small gifts for adults. These will now be distributed to those most in need in the Bury St Edmunds area in time for Christmas.

Amanda said of these gifts: “It is really nice to see that people are putting in the effort, in particular with handmade items and gifts that they have chosen, to really think about the people who need help.

“Every year the need is increasing and the continued support is very much appreciated by the charity."

“Without your help we wouldn’t be able to provide the many services that we offer," she added.

Barry Peters, Iliffe Media Group Editor, said: "It's great to see so many people have taken the time and effort to donate to the campaign this year.

"We are always amazed by the generosity of our readers and staff, and this year has been no different. I'd like to say a massive thank you to all that donated."

Kaia Nicholl, the Bury Free Press and Suffolk News reporter behind the campaign, said: "It was great to get involved in this campaign and to see so much donated for such a good cause.

"During the campaign I spoke to people who had been helped by Gatehouse and volunteers working in the warehouse and they all said the same thing - it is a lifeline for local families.

"These donations are needed now more than ever, so thank you to everyone who helped out."