FOODBANK bosses are worried they will need to support even more people in need next month.

Last December, Colchester Foodbank provided 837 three-day emergency food supplies to people in crisis, 360 of which went to children.

But staff and volunteers are concerned this December could be even busier.

Covering the costs of increasingly cold weather and having children at home during the school holidays makes December a difficult time.

The foodbank is a member of The Trussell Trust network, which revealed foodbanks across the UK see a sharp spike in demand over December compared to the rest of the year.

In the lead up to Christmas 2017, people across North East Essex pulled together to ensure the foodbank had enough food and funds to ensure everyone referred was able to access emergency help.

READ MORE: Santa will be touring Colchester streets to raise cash for those in need

The charity is encouraging anyone planning to support their work this Christmas to donate as soon as possible, to ensure stretched foodbank volunteers have enough time to process and distribute donations.

Michael Beckett, manager at Colchester Foodbank, said: “Every year, the foodbank sees an increase in demand in December, but based on the help people have already needed this year, we think the lead up to this Christmas could be particularly busy.

“It’s not right that anyone in Colchester needs a foodbank at any time of year.

“We’re working with other foodbanks across the country to campaign for long-term change so hopefully we can reach a future where no-one needs us.

“Whilst that work is underway, we’ll do all we can to make sure people at risk of hunger this Christmas get crucial support.

“We’re extremely lucky people are so generous, especially at this time of year.”

Throughout December, the charity will also be offering extra support, giving festive food hampers to every client.

They will also be working in partnership with Emmaus to offer vouchers for a shoebox Christmas present.

Any donations of presents for children should be sent to Emmaus, in Magdalen Street, Colchester. Food and other domestic donations can be dropped off at supermarkets or the foodbank at Moorside Business Park.