HASLEMERE Hospital staff have got into the Easter spirit by donating eggs and themed treats to the town food bank.

The donation drive was organised by Lisa Taylor, clinical equipment lead at Haslemere Hospital, after seeing how successful its Christmas collection in conjunction with the health centre was.

Simon Littlefield, head of nursing, said: “Haslemere Hospital is a key part of the local community and we think it is important to give back where we can.

“The team are brilliant and their generosity with their donations is, I am sure, greatly appreciated.”

Haslemere Food Bank, which is run entirely by volunteers, helped more than 70 families at Christmas through a special distribution.

The organisers have seen an increase in those needing support, exacerbated by the roll out of Universal Credit and the need for claimants to wait at least five weeks for their first payment.

The packs are made up from donations received by the 30-strong team of volunteers, who sort, store and produce them.

Management group chairman David Rice said: “Haslemere Food Bank is very grateful to all those who have helped us provide a little extra for Easter to those families and single people who are being referred to us for food support.

“It is very good of the staff at Haslemere Hospital to support us in this way with their seasonal gifts. We are grateful also, to the many residents of Haslemere and district who provide the food and toiletries which enable us to supply packs to those referred to us for help.

“If you know of someone in need, please encourage them to ask for a referral at Haslemere Health Centre, at CAB, Three Counties Money Advice, their child’s school or church.”