AS he arrives at playgroup every week, little Harrison Gee places an item in the foodbank collection box.

So for his third birthday party, the kind-hearted Barrow tot opted to ask his friends not to buy presents - but to instead bring a donation for the vital charity which provides food for hundreds of residents every month.

And thanks to Harrison's selfless action, Barrow Foodbank estimate they can provide enough food for 134 meals for families across the town who are struggling to make ends meet.

Harrison's mum Mimi Gee explained she was incredibly proud of her son.

She said: "Like lots of children, Harrison and his sister have a lot of toys at home so we suggested that he might ask his friends to bring something for the foodbank to his party instead of presents.

"He was really happy with this because he brings something for the foodbank to playgroup every week.

"We've talked to him about why it's important to do it and where the food goes."

Mrs Gee, who also has a daughter, one-year-old Avis, added: "Everyone was brilliant and brought items for the foodbank to the party. There was a really good pile there at the end and Harrison was thrilled."

Barrow Foodbank, based at Abbey Road Baptist Church, is run by UK charity The Trussell Trust.

Last month it provided three days of nutritionally balanced food for 856 people - including 382 children.

Mrs Gee, of Ainsley Street, adds £5 per week onto her shopping list to purchase items of food for the foodbank which Harrison then pops in the collection point every week at Abbey Road Baptist Church playgroup.

Along with husband Harry, she is now hoping other parents will talk to their children about having foodbank donations instead of presents at birthday parties.

"We are so proud of Harrison, and he was really proud of his certificate from the foodbank.

"If just one party in Barrow had food instead of presents a week, that would be a big boost to the foodbank.

"It's so easy to do, I hope other people might consider it."

Barrow Foodbank

• Barrow Foodbank provides food packages to thousands of people across the area every year.

• Set up in 2012, the charity, based at Abbey Road Baptist Church, offers enough food for three days of nutritionally balanced meals to people struggling to make ends meet.

• Last year, the foodbank gave out 7,251 packages - but monthly figures already show a 30 per cent increase so far this year.

• The charity runs on donations with members of the public asked to donate items of food.

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