FAMILIES in crisis had plenty to eat over Christmas, thanks to big-hearted people across Halton.

Businesses, individuals, churches, schools, offices and contractors donated items to Runcorn and Widnes Foodbanks.

Widnes Market traders, who ran stalls in the square before Christmas, gave their rent money to buy a trolley full of food from Morrisons.

More than 50 people in Widnes received goodies on Friday and emergency ration packs were available throughout the festive period.

The week before, 34 people were fed, thanks to the generosity of local residents.

Mum-of-four Clare Bedford, aged 43, from Farnworth, volunteer project manager for Widnes Foodbank, said: “It has been totally overwhelming.

“Loads of people have been donating food. Many businesses have been giving us items.

“It has been absolutely fantastic.

“We hope this will continue into the New Year.”

Staff at the Argos call centre in Ditton, Asda, Tesco, and contractors who work for Apollo Housing are among the many companies who donated food.

Clr Ron Hignett, board member for the physical environment, said: “Traders wanted to show that Widnes Market really is at the heart of the community by helping out as best they could.”

Widnes Foodbank is run by the town’s 25 churches, with the help of more than 85 volunteers.

It is part of a nationwide network operated by the Christian charity, The Trussell Trust.

People cannot approach the Foodbank directly. They are given vouchers by care professionals, such as doctors, health visitors, social workers, Citizens Advice Bureau, welfare officers, the police and probation officers.

The current food drop off points include Age UK, BHF and Halton Haven charity shops.