RINGWOOD Foodbank is set to open a third distribution centre to better meet demand from those in need of help.

The Fordingbridge centre will open in September and will join those already in operation at Hangersley and Verwood, which provide emergency food aid and support to individuals and families in crisis.

Ringwood Foodbank is entirely dependent on volunteers to run and maintain its warehouses and distribution centres.

Fordingbridge is no exception and it is thanks to the commitment of two people in particular that the development can take place.

Lyndsey Whitehead moved to the Fordingbridge area from Bedfordshire four years ago.

A former director of the National Careers Service across South East England, she has recently been supporting careers services to offenders in custody.

Lyndsey said she was keen to use her skills to support local projects, particularly helping those in need at times of crisis, and said she was excited about the opportunity to set up a food bank distribution centre in Fordingbridge.

She added: "My professional background has always been about supporting people most in need. When I moved to the area I wanted to become actively involved with the local community and I see the foodbank as an opportunity to engage with people at crisis points in their lives."

Steve West is a former adviser and manager of a Careers Service in Devon and Cornwall and a volunteer worker for a foodbank in Launceston, Cornwall.

After moving to Fordingbridge he wanted to continue his active support for foodbanks and so became involved in the establishment of the new distribution centre at Fordingbridge.

Volunteers are needed urgently for the Fordingbridge distribution centre. Anyone who is interested in becoming part of the new venture should call Ringwood Foodbank on 01425 600134, or email info@ringwood.foodbank.org.uk