VOLUNTEERS who give up their time to help families in crisis have been praised for their dedication.

Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury visited Runcorn and District Foodbank to see some of the work volunteers are doing to support those in need.

He spoke to staff about the work they do and the pressures involved.

Volunteers revealed that demand has increased, citing long waits for Universal Credit payments and low wages as the main reasons for the upsurge.

Mr Amesbury also met a health visitor who was collecting a parcel for one of many families she supports.

She said the woman who needed her help was on maternity leave and struggling to make ends meet after her husband's working hours had been cut.

The health visitor said that despite never set foot inside a foodbank until 14 months ago, she now attends two or three times a week on behalf of families in need.

Mr Amesbury said: “It was humbling to see the efforts of volunteers who give up their time to help people in our community who are in need.

“I think it’s a genuine disgrace that foodbanks are needed in the first place when you consider that this is the sixth largest economy in the world.

“This government has presided over huge welfare cuts and stagnating wages and the results are plain to see.

“Genuine success will be the day when foodbanks are no longer needed and I will continue to pressure the government on this issue.”

Mr Amesbury visited the foodbank's new distribution centre on Ship Street in Frodsham.

Colin Keiley, Runcorn and District Foodbank manager, said: “We’re really grateful for all the support from the public in Runcorn, Frodsham, Helsby, Tesco, Sainsbury and Morrisons for all the food donations and support of the foodbank, the volunteers and support from the Churches together in Frodsham.

“We thank Mike for attending and his interest in the issues of clients attending the foodbank.”

Visit runcorndistrict.foodbank.org.uk to see the foodbank's current list of requirements.