BIG-HEARTED Borderers have been hailed for their response to an SOS made by Galashiels Foodbank.

As we revealed earlier this month, volunteers were running short of much-needed supplies.

But following a Border Telegraph appeal, the foodbank, which is run three times a week, has now been restocked.

The service is operated by church members in the Gala, Tweedbank and Melrose areas.

And they have been overwhelmed with the public’s response.

Co-ordinator John Tucker said: “We have been delighted with the support we have received from the local community following the article.

“We would like to thank everybody for their generosity.

“I have received between 15 and 20 emails from people wanting to donate and we have also had up to 10 people getting in touch to give money. Some contributions have been sizeable donations, which has gone a long way to help our bank balance.”

As we reported, the number of people visiting the foodbank has soared compared to last year.

Statistics show that in January 2018 the service helped 60 people. During the same month this year, that figure rose to 92.

And in February 2018 48 Borderers received parcels, while last month saw 87 come through the door. But Mr Tucker hopes the public will continue to help out with donations.

He added: “We really want to continue to keep the foodbank stocked up.

“We have received so many tins of beans and soup, so luckily we don’t need any more of those for the foreseeable future. But we want to keep on top of other items too.

“Our stock management techniques are not very scientific – so we just want to make sure we continue to have items and make sure the stocks do not run low.”

Foodbank volunteers will also be at the Galashiels Asda supermarket on Tuesday, April 30, between 10am and 2pm to collect donations.

Mr Tucker said: “We are very grateful to Emma Tanner from Asda who has given us a slot in the store. She has managed to squeeze us in despite being very busy.

“We also want to thank our wonderful local community again for their continued support.”