A Macclesfield food bank has seen a steep rise in the number of people needing its services as the economic impact of coronavirus hits the town.

In February, the Silklife Foodbank received 90 referrals to help individuals and families, which is where they are normally capped.

At the halfway point in April, they have already seen 93 referrals, which equates to roughly a doubling in demand.

The lockdown brought in to reduce the spread of coronavirus has left many businesses with no choice but to shut leaving many workers furloughed, often on 80% of their usual earnings or with no income at all.

Chrissie Thompson, a coordinator at the foodbank told Nub News she has seen a major increase in the number of people needing help.

"Definitely with people on furlough they just haven't got the same amount of money coming in or maybe they've even lost their jobs. There has been a wide of people being referred to us."

Ms Thompson stressed that a referral can range from an individual to an entire family.

The 90 referrals in February equated to helping 150 people.

The rise in demand has sparked a wave of generosity from across Macclesfield, with an increase in donations being made to the foodbank.

Ms Thompson said: "We have a box in Sainsbury's made by 'Men in Sheds', another local charity, which a nice big box for people to put donated food into.

"Since the coronavirus crisis, we've had a lot of people offer to give us money as well. We've had a number of cheques and people have put money directly into our account as well."

The generosity of donors has meant the foodbank can go beyond their usual cap of 90 referrals a month and support more people in need.

Macclesfield residents have also been donating their time to get the food delivered to households in need.

"We've got a lot of drivers now. Some of my drivers were 70+ and they've had to self-isolate, so a lot of others have volunteered," Ms Thompson said.

Ms Thompson also praised local supermarkets who have been positive in responding to the needs of the foodbank.

Silklife Foodbank is currently at capacity for the number of volunteers it can accommodate, but Ms Thompson said anyone can help through donations of food or money.

Food donations can be made at the box in Sainsbury's or they can be left at the Silklife Centre on George Street on Tuesdays from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Long-life food is in particular demand, including tinned meat and vegetables, pasta, rice and UHT milk.

If you would prefer to make a donation of money, please email [email protected] to arrange a bank transfer.

For those who may need to access the foodbank, referrals can be given from a range of organisations, including Cheshire East Housing Options, Social Services and Macclesfield Accommodation Care and Concern (MACC).