A Keighley woman is setting up a new food bank to help the needy.

Michelle Blackler, from Damems, said the facility would initially only serve people who are referred to it, though she hopes to be able to make it more accessible once she gains additional support. The food bank will operate from the Sue Belcher Centre in Bracken Bank, with its first session due to take place on Friday April 11.

Mrs Blackler, 37, said: “Morrisons supermarket has already donated food and they’ve committed to doing this once a month. But I’ve asked other stores for support as I’ll need donations from them too if this is to work.

“This is to help people in crisis or maybe elderly people who don’t have much money.

“The more donations I get, the more I’ll be able to open this up to a wider range of people.” She said Kilmeny Surgery had agreed to act as a drop-off point for people willing to donate food towards the new venture.

She added that people can call her on 07944 992856 if they are interested in offering further backing.