SO many people are now using the Helston and Lizard Foodbank that a co-ordinator has been appointed to oversee its running.

Ruth McGurk, who lives in St Keverne with husband Steve, himself a foodbank volunteer, will help promote the work of the foodbank run by the Mustard Seed charity at its headquarters in the Open Door cafe, 14 Wendron Street.

Arthur Jackson, Mustard Seed director, said Mrs McGurk brought a “considerable amount of administrative experience” having worked in local schools and businesses.

Her role will include expanding awareness of the foodbank’s services both among donors of non-perishable foodstuffs and anyone in short term need of basic food.

This is given without judgement, once a voucher is presented. Vouchers are given out by a variety of care-based agencies and |organisations in the area.

Mrs McGurk will also oversee the work of the 14 part time volunteers who with the collection of food for the bank, shelving it in an orderly way in the main food store – currently based within the ShelterBox base on the Water-ma-Trout industrial estate – and then making up three-day supply boxes of relevant foods.

Mrs McGurk said: “I’m delighted to be offered this post as it provides me with a challenging opportunity to show Christian love to my |community.”

She will also be looking for more distribution centres for food in Helston and across the Lizard, as those in need often find it difficult to fund their own transport.

Distribution times at the Open Door Café are currently 10am to 2pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, while food donations can be made there every weekday.