PUPILS at a Lydney school were inspired to make a collection for the Forest Foodbank after learning about what it means to ‘love thy neighbour’.

Children in Years Two and Three at Lydney Church of England Primary School looked at charities which help people around the UK during religious education lessons.

Teacher, Abigail Humprhries, said: “After looking at the Forest Foodbank, the children thought it would be a great idea to have their own collection.”

Year Two children made a colourful banner and the older pupils found out what items were needed and made leaflets to send to parents.

A collection was made over three days with food and toiletries donated and items from the tombola at the school fair were donated by the Friends of Lydney C of E.”

Foodbank spokeswoman, Esther Stevens, said: “We were so impressed by the children’s banners and artwork and wanted to say a huge thank you to the children, parents and staff of Lydney C of E for thinking of the Forest Food bank and for their generous donation”

The Foodbank held its own ‘thank you’ celebration for the work of its volunteers over the last 12 months.

They were given a special treat at the Latchen Rooms in Longhope with an afternoon of music, sandwiches, cake and tea.

Local Singer and songwriter, musician Stella Thomson-Pigott entertained them with her own written songs as well as some well-known numbers to get everyone singing along.

Catering was by the Old Dairy Tearooms, Hart’s Barn, Longhope.

The event was org, nised by the Foodbank’s volunteer manager Yvonne Wood

“She does so much and is our real mother hen” , said Foodbank manager Tina Gray, presenting Yvonne with flowers.

Volunteers work at the distribution centres in Coleford, Lydney, and Cinderford, at the warehouse, do weekly supermarket collections, and box fill to ensure the centres are ready to receive the clients.

For more information about becoming a volunteer contact Yvonne Wood on 01594 832428 or email [email protected]