HUNDREDS of hampers have been distributed to those struggling to make ends meet across Basingstoke.

A project to deliver essential supplies to those in need hit a new high when the hampers were distributed by an army of volunteers.

Basingstoke shopping centre Festival Place once again supported the annual Christmas Hamper Project organised by Basingstoke Foodbank and the Besom in Basingstoke, which saw 1,000 hampers packed with food and other essentials. 

The project aimed to bring much-needed help – and a little festive cheer – to those facing an empty table on Christmas Day.

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The shopping centre set aside a special unit for the project and invited visitors to drop off donations. 

Abigail Compton-Burnett, from the Basingstoke Food Bank, said the hampers were received with delight.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated hampers, food items, money and time to the Basingstoke Christmas Hamper Project, making a big difference to Christmas for so many people,” she said.  

"We received around 1,000 referrals from local agencies for individuals and families living in Basingstoke who were unable to buy Christmas treats without sacrificing staple food or heating, and it was wonderful to reach our target thanks to the generosity of local residents, schools, clubs, businesses and churches.”

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Festival Place boss Neil Churchill added: “The project delivers desperately needed festive cheer to those in need across Basingstoke, and we are so grateful to all those loyal customers who once again supported this fantastic initiative.

“The project makes a big difference to those struggling to make ends meet, and it shines a spotlight on our great community spirit.”