Demand from a service providing food for the needy doubled last month.

Wimbledon Foodbank, established 18 months ago, provides a three day emergency food parcel to those in the community in desperate need.

In April the charity handed out 3.25 tonnes of supplies, up from 1.8 tonnes in March.

Pastor Marcus Bennett of Elim Pentecostal Church in High Path, which hosts and leads the Foodbank, said: "We are shocked at the level of need in 21st century London and delighted to be able to demonstrate the love of God to our community in this very practical manner.

"The number of our neighbours which are only a payment, wages or benefits away from despair is amazing."

Wimbledon Foodbank vouchers for food parcels are available from 107 organisations across Merton, including churches, family centres, schools, some social work teams, Wimbledon Guild and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

The next collection of stock will be at Waitrose in Wimbledon and Raynes Park on Saturday May 18.