WIDNES Foodbank fed almost 2,000 people during the past year.

Emergency food parcels were given to 1,822 people, including 683 children under the age of 16.

Volunteers fear that many more residents are desperately in need but are too embarrassed to redeem their vouchers.

They are particularly worried about older people who they believe feel too proud to accept food.

Clare Bedford, project co-ordinator for Widnes Foodbank, said: “These figures are unacceptably high.

“More and more people are struggling to get by because their incomes are too low.

“We know how many vouchers are issued. A large proportion are not coming in.

“We are very concerned about the elderly.

“We don’t want anyone to be struggling.”

She urged anyone in need to seek help and reassured people there is no need to feel ashamed.

Clare said: “Our volunteers are happy to help. There is no judgement.

“People have to be referred by an agency and only people with vouchers can come into the centres.

“There is a relaxed atmosphere and you will feel welcome.”

Problems with the social security system continue to be the biggest overall trigger.

Benefit delays accounted for 27 per cent of referrals and benefit changes 26 per cent.

Clare added: “Incomes for the poorest have not been increasing in line with inflation and many, whether in low paid work or on welfare, are not yet seeing the benefits of economic recovery.

“Instead, they are living on a financial knife edge where one small change in circumstances can force them into a crisis where they cannot afford to eat sufficiently.”

She thanked everyone who had supported the Foodbank since it opened in 2012.

She said: “The people of Widnes are amazingly generous.

“Our warehouse is always stocked.”

Around 200 volunteers run six centres across Widnes.

Churches of all denominations, schools, businesses and supermarkets hold regular collections.