Radstock residents are urged to make sure that no child goes hungry this spring, as Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited Somer Valley Foodbank at St Nicholas Church Cafe in Radstock.

The cost of living crisis is getting worse with inflation at the highest rate for 30 years and a record increase in household energy bills expected from April.

Mr Norris discussed the gloomy outlook with Somer Valley Foodbank Project Manager Paul Woodward and volunteers who say it is clear locally that need is increasing once more. Figures show a third of all food distributed by foodbanks throughout the year goes to children.

The Radstock life-line charity need food supplies all year round. Traditionally they receive more donations at Christmas and harvest festival time but February can be more of a fallow month.

Currently stocks are especially low in instant mash, UHT milk, tinned potatoes and vegetables, and milk powder, so generous local people are encouraged to give these items.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: "Thank you to everyone working so hard at Somer Valley Food bank and to all those donating food. Unfortunately the cost of living is soaring, petrol is 24 percent more expensive, and rents are at their highest level in 13 years. So for some local families just putting food on the table is a struggle. The truth is that anyone can suddenly find themselves going hungry when something unexpected happens: an illness, losing your job or the boiler breaking, and they are thrown into crisis. Somer Valley Food bank provides a vital lifeline."