A NEW affordable food hub has been set up in Longtown Memorial Hall and Community Centre as the team work to bring affordable food provision, and also access to the free foodbank back to Longtown.

The Pop-Up Pantry is somewhere to go for more affordable food for just £3.50 per shop. The Pantry is open Wednesdays 4-7pm and Friday 9am-12noon. Please bring your own shopping bag.

Local resident Christine Johanssen is vice-chair of the Community Centre Trustees. She said: "If you are struggling financially and would like a hand up rather than a hand out then we are here to help.

"The Pop-Up Pantry provides an affordable way for you to get the food you need for you and your family."

Local residents will also have improved access to foodbank services. Residents who are in need who have been referred to Carlisle Food Bank will be able to pick up food from the Community Centre from Longtown, rather than having to travel into Carlisle.

Councillor Tim Pickstone is chair of the Community Centre Trustees. He said: "With prices rising there are a lot of people who are struggling with bills and day to day living costs.

"It is great that we have been able to get the Pop-Up Pantry, and the Foodbank up and running for Longtown and the surrounding area.

"A big thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to get this up and running in Longtown."

The Longtown Pop-Up Pantry has been kindly supported by Riverside Housing and Cumbria County Council.