A TRAIN operator has launched a food bank appeal at all of its stations.

c2c, which runs trains from Shoebury into Fenchurch Street, is calling on its customers to get involved in the appeal by donating items at any station on the route.

Foodbank usage is on the increase, and people are being asked to donate things like pasta, tins, rice, cereal, and tea.

The food will then be distributed to one of five food banks, including the Trussel Trust Food Bank, in Pitsea Leisure Centre, and and Shoebury Church.

c2c group station manager Julie Davis said: “We started this as a community appeal among our staff, but then we realised our stations could provide the perfect opportunity for our customers to get involved too.

“Local food banks play a vital role and always need more donations, so anyone who wants to donate items can just drop them off at their local station.”