AN Oldham furniture company has launched a food bank collection point at its headquarters.

Hill’s Panel Products (HPP), based in Scottfield Road, Oldham, decided to implement the collection point for Oldham Foodbank after taking inspiration from the company’s transport manager Pete Greenwood.

Pete, from Springhead, volunteers every Friday for three and a half hours at the foodbank.

The manager, who is planning to extend his hours there as he approaches retirement, said: "It’s a really enjoyable and rewarding way of spending your time".

A Facebook post published by HPP on Thursday said the company had to decided to implement a food collection point so that all staff could participate.

Oldham Foodbank, which stores its supplies at two large warehouses in Derker, is a lifeline for those across the borough who are struggling with the cost of living.

Data shows that in January, the food bank fed close to 2,000 people, an average increase in demand of nearly 30 per cent compared to last year.

For more information on the foodbank contact 0161 770 7007 or visit oldham.foodbank.org.uk.