CHRISTCHURCH Food Bank has expanded its vital services while warning the service is needed more than ever.

Hundreds of people have been helped by the charity this year alone, and now they can also get support with furniture, education and assistance for the homeless.

The food bank, which is based at St Joseph's Church in Purewell, held a special event on Friday to celebrate their expanded facility.

Now, alongside the existing food bank, there is also a furniture bank, budget coaching, cooking on a budget workshops and help for the homeless.

At the annual event, it was revealed that the bank has helped people 10,400 times since it opened in 2011.

Tracy Blick, Christchurch Food Bank manager and projects co-ordinator, said: "It is a privilege to do my job.

"We are so much more than just food; we are helping those in need on their journey out of crisis, thanks to the generosity of volunteers, churches, donors and local supporting organisations.

"Since opening have given food to over 10,400 mouths. There is definitely a need in Christchurch and with Universal Credit coming in sadly this need will only increase."

Guests on Friday included Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Nick Geary, Christchurch, Christchurch MP Chris Chope, members of the Labour Party, Mary Magdalene Trust, Sovereign Housing and other community groups and churches in the town.

Christchurch Foodbank was an initiative set up by CFOC (Christchurch Fellowship of Churches) and works in partnership with Faithworks Wessex.

This year, the facility has helped 959 adults and 685 children, as well as handing out 172 hunger holiday vouchers.