TAKING TOLL

vThe number of hardup families who are being forced to turn to foodbanks is continuing to rise.

Figures released this week have revealed that between April 1 and September 30, 2052 three- day emergency food supplies were provided to local people in crisis by the West Lothian Foodbank.

This compares to 1914 during the same period last year and an increase of seven per cent. Of this, 665 food parcels went to children.

The foodbank, a member of The Trussell Trust network, said things might get worse as traditionally it sees a spike in foodbank use in the months leading up to Christmas due cold weather and high energy bills.

Kathleen Neilly, manager of West Lothian Foodbank, is asking the community to help them prepare for their busiest time of year by donating urgently needed money or food items

Kathleen said: “It’s really worrying that we are still seeing