A WHOPPING four tonnes of food have been donated to a foodbank in crisis since a campaign was launched by The Mail just 12 days ago.

Bosses of the Barrow-based charity, which has outposts in Ulverston and Millom, say they are delighted with the response of the the public.

The amount represents a more than fourfold increase on regular donation levels and means the shelves of the foodbank are a stocked a little better.

But with the summer holidays around the corner and demand set to surge, volunteers are pleading with the public to keep the food coming.

Barrow foodbank manager Ann Mills said: "It has been brilliant, absolutely brilliant, and the food is still coming in.

"We usually go to Tesco once a week to pick up donations but at the moment we are going every other day; sometimes every day.

"We have had lots of schools get involved and have their own collections; North Walney School donated around 800kg, which was wonderful.

"The campaign has been great for us and we really appreciate what people are doing."

In June it was revealed the foodbank had just four weeks of supplies left. Levels were said to be at an all-time low during a period when demand was unprecedented.

Families and individuals requiring help for extended periods of time was one of the main contributory factors to the shortage.

And with the summer holidays just weeks away, staff were concerned the situation would worsen.

With increased donation now flowing, The Mail - which made a £500 donation to the charity - has set a 10-tonne target through its Tonnes of Tins appeal.

Editor James Higgins said: "There has been an absolutely amazing response to our call for help. The people of Barrow and beyond have truly proved they have a heart.

"That's no surprise, of course. The ability and determination of people in the area to help in times of adversity is incredible.

"I'd like to thank all those people who have helped out so far - and encourage everyone to do what they can as soon as possible.