KIND-HEARTED councillors donated more than 15 stones of food to be passed on to needy families.

The collection, for Colchester Food Bank, was organised by Lyn Barton, Colchester councillor for Shrub End.

She asked colleagues to donate cereals, soups and drinks when they turned up to a full council meeting on Thursday.

Mrs Barton said: “It was a chance to show us all united in supporting a good cause, which doesn't happen often.

“Many councillors support the food bank on a regular basis anyway, but it was great to have so many councillors bring in some food.

“We recognise this time of year is particularly difficult for some residents.”

Colchester Food Bank, based at Moorside Business Park, takes donations from the public and hands out food parcels to those in need every Tuesday and Thursday.