MORRISONS has begun a drive to restock the nation’s food banks.

Research conducted by The Trussell Trust found that two thirds more people are expected to need their help this year compared to last year.

The charity has forecast a 61 per cent increase in food parcels needed this winter compared to last year as more people struggle with the economic fallout of Covid-19.

After working with food banks across the country, Morrisons has determined the items most needed in the run up to Christmas are tinned fruit, long life juice and cereal.

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These top a wider priority containing seasonal items such as advent calendars, tinned meat and fish, puddings, biscuits, cooking sauces, tea and coffee, toiletries and sanitary protection.

Morrisons Community Champions have also been listening to their local food banks and will be making it easier for customers to donate the items really needed this Christmas with the introduction of Food Bank Priority Item signs in all stores.

The signage will feature adjacent to products that are most needed by food banks in each local area and be updated regularly.

Throughout December, customers will be able to buy a festive version of Morrisons’ popular Pick Up Packs - pre-packed bags of specific groceries that food banks have advised will be most needed in their locality.

They will include some Christmas items and cost up to £4.

Customers can pick up a pack on their way into the store, pay for the items at the till, and then place the bag in a dedicated donation station, which will then be collected by local food bank volunteers.

Morrisons has also introduced Toy Donation Stations where customers can donate a new toy.

Donated items are passed on to a local good causes and charities in the local community.

Community director at Morrisons, Rebecca Singleton said: “We have worked with food banks across the UK to identify the key items that are most needed by the vulnerable in our communities.

“The UK’s food banks are a lifeline for many people and we want to make it easier for customers to donate so that no one is left behind this Christmas.”