An independent retailer has been thanked for its generosity after donating a new, top-of-the-range Liebherr fridge freezer to a community group.

Domestic appliance specialist, Dacombes of Wimborne, said it was an honour to help Wimborne Community Food Supply.

Based at the back of the Allendale Centre in Hanham Road, the voluntary organisation offers free food to families and individuals at a time of crisis.

Volunteers Alex Roberts and Gillian Dyer.

Over 30 volunteers work six days a week to provide hot meals, food parcels and school lunch boxes for those in need around Wimborne, Colehill and Ferndown.

The resource was launched by local volunteers just two days after the nationwide lockdown.

Three years on, it’s now supporting families and individuals struggling with the cost of living crisis as well as unemployment or poor health.

Perry Grist and Elizabeth Barge.

Food donations via local Co-Op supermarkets as well as excess food from Greggs sandwich chains is all put to good use.

Elizabeth Barge, who’s been volunteering since the outset, said: “We’re overwhelmed with thanks to Dacombes.

“This new fridge freezer will allow us to store more of our prepared portions of food such as fish pie and lasagne that people can take away and heat up at home.

“If they have no cooking facilities, we can reheat and serve to them in our discreet area at the back of the Allendale.”

Perry Grist, Volunteer Manager of Wimborne Community Food Supply, said: “Our aim is to help anyone on no income, or a low income, eat a well-balanced diet.

“We ask for no proof of income and our service is confidential and without judgement.

“People from all walks of life come to us – the homeless, those in hostels, sofa surfers and single parents.

“We also deliver to people with disability issues and some living with dementia.

“Being able to easily reheat a hot, home-cooked meal can make all the difference.”

Matt Renaut, Managing Director of Dacombes, said: “In the 100 years of trading as an independent business in Wimborne, our family-run business has always sought to support initiatives in the local community.

“It’s an honour to donate an appliance that will help this impressive resource.”

Wimborne Community Food Supply is seeking volunteer delivery drivers and food collectors.

Call the Allendale Centre 01202 887247 or email info@theallendale.org.

Food donations can be made via Wimborne Co-Op – just look out for containers at the supermarket checkouts.

It also welcomes financial support and equipment supplies from local businesses.