DRUMCHAPEL Food Bank staff have promised they will “always” find a way to support the community after their most difficult year yet.

The Ladyloan Place food bank has seen demand for its services almost treble since the nationwide lockdown was announced in March.

It’s understood around 100,000 food parcels have been delivered thus far and the Christmas period has only put further strain on the bank’s resources.

Ryan McGeavy, project manager, said: “It’s been very, very intense for us. We’re super, super busy.

“Just this week, we’ve seen about 70 people in one day. In normal circumstances, it would take us from Monday to Thursday to reach that number.

“Christmas is always a busy time but, with the lockdown as well, it’s just been murder. We’re seeing more people than ever.”

With just two official staff members and a team of between 10 and 20 volunteers, team members work around the clock to ensure the ­community, which is one of the most deprived in Glasgow, is fed.

Support for the vital service has also reached an all-time high with local businesses and organisations coming through with donations, such as the Glasgow City Council cleansing department who stepped in with a £500 boost earlier this year.

Speaking at the time GMB trade union convener, Chris Mitchell, said: “I think they do an absolutely phenomenal job supporting communities, especially throughout this Covid-19 pandemic.

“I don’t think any community in Scotland could survive without these people.”

Councillor Paul Carey, who represents the area, has praised the organisation for managing to carry on in such strenuous circumstances and urged people to continue their support for the group.

He said: “I am amazed at how hard the Drumchapel food bank has worked through this pandemic, particularly at this time of the year.

“Organisations like this are key in supporting and protecting the most vulnerable in society.”

As with many charities, while the coronavirus pandemic has seen support rates soar, it has also brought out the generosity of the people of north-west Glasgow.

Ryan said: “It’s probably been our busiest year yet but, also, our most successful in terms of ­donations. We’ll always find a way to help people in the community.”

Cash donations can also be made by contacting the main office on 0141 944 3335.