Demand for food parcels at Walton and Hersham foodbank has more than doubled in the past two years.

The foodbank, run by Walton Charity, said changes to benefits, unexpected bills, homelessness and illnesses often left people struggling for food and reliant on their help.

With the school holidays now in full swing, the organisation said families whose children receive free schools have their food budgets stretched even further.

Des Humphrey, chairman of Walton and Hersham foodbank’s steering group, said: "In an area as seemingly affluent as Elmbridge, it can come as a shock that there are so many people in desperate need of food aid.

"Times like school holidays can leave families at breaking point, where there are just too many mouths to feed. The foodbank can provide crisis intervention with essential food items."

The foodbank can support families with emergency food parcels if they obtain a foodbank voucher from their children’s centre, citizens advice bureau, social services department or GP.

If you are in a food crisis and are unsure where to get a foodbank voucher, call Walton Charity on 01932 220242.