The town’s children’s centre has received funding of £1,000 from Magna Housing Association to assist families that have fallen into crisis.

Magna Housing Association has provided funding for the centre through its community initiative fund (CIF) to support the centre’s food bank.

The food bank helps families that are unable to purchase essential food items.

Since it was set up just over a year ago, it has provided food for more that 140 adults and children in the area.

Louisa Payne, area manager for the children’s centre, said: “The lifeline it provides for a lot of our families who are in crisis is absolutely invaluable.

“I am delighted that the Beaminster community has taken the cause into their hearts – as this is another reason why the project is so successful.”

Ken Bodycombe, community investment officer at Magna, added: “As an organisation we want to work together with community groups like this and help them as much as we can. They provide an invaluable service to the local community, helping people in need and providing support that truly makes a difference.”

The centre is also setting up a volunteer scheme to match experienced cooks with parents who may be struggling to cook meals for their family.

The volunteer will work with the family in a one-to-one environment, providing tips and recipes for healthy cooking.