Thieves steal £7k worth of items from food bank

A food bank team said they feel "violated" after burglars stole their van and £7,000 worth of items.

Thieves broke into North Bristol and South Gloucestershire food bank's base at Ebenezer Church in Horfield, Bristol, between 03:30 and 04:00 BST on Wednesday.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed it is investigating the break-in at the charity, which supports struggling families and vulnerable people.

A church spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened by what has happened, but both the church and food bank remain committed to serving our local communities and continuing to bring practical support, compassion and hope."

Stewart North, chair of trustees at the food bank, said the team felt "violated" by the incident.

"It was breaking and entering. It's been gutting," he said.

But he said the community has been "amazing" in helping to replenish stocks.

"We had incredible amounts of support from [the] community offering finances, offering food and essential items to the food bank and support for the church and people really rallying around together," he said.

Since starting in 2012, the food bank has expanded to open nine outlets across the area, which are run by more than 250 volunteers.

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed officers later recovered the charity's van in Lockleaze, but a laptop and safe remain missing.

Officers have urged anyone with relevant information to get in touch.

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