VULNERABLE people and families across Dorset will benefit from thousands of parcels donated by shoppers.

More than 2,000 food parcels have been gifted by shoppers at the Dolphin Shopping Centre in Poole,

The shopping centre remained open for essential retail thought the coronavirus pandemic, and encouraged shoppers to donate food items to the foodbank facilitated by Faithworks Wessex.

John Grinnell, centre manager at Dolphin Shopping Centre, said: “The generosity of our shoppers has been outstanding.

“Even during a global health crisis, local people still understand the importance of the food bank.

“At the centre, we can see first-hand the need for this service and will continue to help in whatever way we can.”

The foodbank is located opposite Marks and Spencer’s in the shopping centre, and donations are welcomed during opening hours.

The shopping centre has been open for non-essential retail for4 a few weeks now.

All staff are wearing PPE and the centre has incorporated a one-way system to encourage social distancing.

Hand sanitiser is placed around the centre, ensuring the virus cannot spread.

And Mr Grinnell said, after opening, shoppers were “comfortable” while visiting.

The Dolphin Shopping Centre is currently open Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 6.30pm, and Sundays from 10am to 5.30pm.

Elderly and vulnerable customers are encouraged to shop between the hours of 9am to 10am, whilst NHS and key workers will be given priority between 4.30pm to 5.30pm.

Each retailers’ specific opening times are on their website.