Almost 10,000 emergency food parcels were given out to Norwich people in need last year from the city foodbank.

Of those more than 3,000 went to children.

According to the Trussell Trust, in Norwich between April 1 2017 and March 31 2018, a total of 9,721 emergency food supplies were provided to local people at a crisis point.

It was a rise of 575 on the previous year, which the foodbank believes is down to ongoing problems with benefit payments.

Almost half of referrals throughout the year - 44pc - related to benefit delays or changes, the Trussell Trust said.

As part of a national network campaigning for change, the foodbank is working hard to offer practical emergency support to help prevent people affected going hungry, whilst simultaneously participating in vital research and raising awareness about the issues local people are facing.

Hannah Worsley, Project Manager of Norwich foodbank said: 'We don't want to be here forever.

'No one in Norwich should need a foodbank's help and we want to see an end to local people needing emergency food at all. It doesn't have to be this way - with a benefits system that catches people before they fall into crisis, and secure work that provides people with enough money to cover the cost of essentials, this is possible.

'But until that time, we'll continue to provide vital support when it matters most - we're dedicated to ensuring that people in our community with no money for food are able to access emergency support, and that has only been possible in the last year because of the incredible generosity shown by local people in donating food, time and funds. 'Thank you.'

The running costs for the foodbank are raised locally to enable them to continue their work.

'Costs include office space to enable volunteers to carry out the administration side of the charity mileage expenses for volunteer drivers who collect donations and deliver stock to distribution centres and other overheads like utilities and insurances. The foodbank welcomes any new offers of help with funding.

Local businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the foodbank's work can find out more at www.norwichfoodbank.co.uk