SOME stories came back time and again during particular periods of time and in 2012, the activities of local food banks was one such theme.

Despite the evidence in front of them, many people still find it diffcult to accept that anyone should need to use a food bank these days - some of the comments on our website show that much is clear.

They believe that anybody who does is either getting a free ride or is not managing their finances properly.

And yet, there are more of such facilities than ever in the local area (and nationally) and they are busier than ever.

So much so that Bournemouth Council has just given £3,000 to the cause and organisers across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch are appealing for continued support from the public in the coming year.

They recognise what is already very obvious. Their help will be needed more in 2013 than it was in 2012.