A CHRISTMAS collection for Halton’s two foodbanks has been hailed a huge success.

Generous shoppers at Tesco in Widnes donated 1,125 kilos of food.

The retailer topped this up with a further 30 per cent.

Runcorn and Widnes Foodbanks also raised £225 from the three day neighbourhood food collection earlier this month.

It comes as alarming figures revealed that 2,000 desperate families across Halton relied on food handouts for survival during a six month crisis.

This included 717 children in need.

Gareth Watson from Widnes Foodbank said: “We’re really grateful to everyone who donated at the collection.

“It will ensure we are able to meet the demands of our neighbours especially with Christmas just around the corner.

“Everyone involved from volunteers to donors and supporters help to make our work possible.

“We can’t thank everyone enough. It really means a lot.”

Runcorn Foodbank has fed more than 6,000 people since it opened in November, 2012.

There are various collection points for food donations across Halton.

Long life milk, sponge puddings, cereals, fruit juice, instant mash, sugar, pasta sauces, jam and coffee are among items always appreciated.