A scheme involving volunteers in Oldham is working to provide those most in need with fresh fruit and vegetables.

Due to the cost-of-living crisis having a major impact on households across the borough, many residents have been forced to turn to food banks for help.

As the demand at food banks continues to rise, The Hub in Alexandra Park is making a difference by providing fresh produce to those who need it most.

Local volunteers and the council’s Environmental Services are growing, harvesting and packing fresh produce into veg boxes for Oldham Foodbank each week.

The Hub began during the pandemic as it aimed to support isolated residents, however, it is valued even more today as people struggle with the rising cost of goods.

Council leader Amanda Chadderton said she was "incredibly grateful" for the work of the volunteers as they help to tackle food poverty in the borough.

She said: "Many residents are now at crisis level and have nowhere to turn to feed themselves or their families.

"That is why we are committed to do everything we can to help those most in need at this very difficult time."

Tom Lewsihood, organisational development coordinator at Oldham Foodbank, said: "We are incredibly grateful for the fresh produce that is regularly donated to us.

"Times are incredibly hard at the moment and, with the cost of people’s shopping bills continuing to grow, it is becoming harder for people to donate, so we really welcome this additional support.

"Due to the number of people we’re supporting at the moment, we really are in desperate need of all items – that is the reality of our situation – so we really do appreciate everything we receive."

According to the council, the number of food parcels distributed by Oldham Foodbank last year has already been surpassed by more than 3,600.

The food bank has fed more than 17,865 people in total including 7,201 children, with most of December still to come.

Cllr Chadderton said: "When I recently visited Oldham Foodbank, I saw first-hand how desperate the situation is becoming as we approach Christmas and the winter period.

"Demand at the foodbank has never been higher and while our residents are hugely generous in their own donations of support, this demand is sadly overtaking supply at an alarming rate."

Anyone struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, or to feed themselves or their family is encouraged to phone the council helpline on 0161 770 7007.

It is open between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday.