A GLASGOW food charity have had their busiest ever Christmas this year.

Food Train, who deliver groceries to older people in need, have seen a 70% increase in demand for their services throughout the pandemic with the charity making more than 700 deliveries every month.

Now, volunteers are pulling out all the stops in the run up to Christmas with many older people now spending the festive period alone.

READ MORE: Food Train appeals for volunteers as numbers drop due to end of furlough scheme

Chris Curtis, Food Train regional manager for Glasgow, said: “I can’t thank our volunteers enough for all that they’re doing to help older people eat well and live well in their own homes.”

“Our services have never been needed more and the way they’ve responded to the demands we’ve faced this year has been tremendous. They’ve made a positive difference to the lives of older people in our region by ensuring they have not gone without essential shopping supplies.

“The need for our work is, of course, there all-year round. But, it’s nice to know that we’re doing our bit to help during the festive season - especially when it’s likely that more older people than ever will spend Christmas Day in their own homes this year, given the circumstances.”

Food Train chief executive Michelle Carruthers said: "So many of the older people who turned to us as coronavirus took hold in our communities have stayed.

"That’s partly down to the fact that they have come to enjoy having their shopping delivered directly to their homes and the social contact they have with our volunteers along the way.

“But, for a great many older people, the simple fact is that they still don’t feel safe going into shops and want to feel more confident before they return for themselves, which everyone can empathise with. We’re continuing to work really hard to meet that demand.”

To cope with the increased demand, Food Train are always looking to recruit more volunteers. Readers who are interested should call 0141 423 1722 or visit the website here.