FAMILIES struggling to eat will soon have access to fresh milk, cheese and more, thanks to Milford Haven Town Council.

On Monday (July 31) the council voted to give £5,000 to local food bank Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship (PATCH).

The money will mean the charity can purchase a refrigerated van, meaning the will be able to accept donations of chilled foods from local supermarkets.

Tracy Olin, PATCH co-ordinator, said: "We're extremely grateful."

Mrs Olin, who also sits on the council, but had to leave the council chambers while the vote was carried out, added: "It was quite a shock to come back in and hear the news.

"Milford Haven is where the most need is, and where the majority of our clients are from.

"Having the van will mean PATCH can now accept a wider range of donations, and will also mean less produce is thrown out by local supermarkets."

Proposing the figure, Cllr Guy Woodham said: "It's a sad fact that Milford Haven is the biggest area for food parcel referrals.

"With over £100,000 in reserves it would be disappointing not to be able to help, when this would seriously benefit those most in need in our community."

Cllr William Elliott agreed with the sentiments, but added that the council's contribution should be promoted on the new van.

PATCH has also received £2,000 from South Hook LNG towards the new vehicle, and will also sell its current van, which is predicted to raise the final £1,000 needed.