North Ayrshire's Foodbank was dealt a shock blow this week after a national strategy change means they can no longer have a static collection point in Asda

Asda announced a national change in their community strategy which means that the charity are unable to have their static collection point which has seen 15 tons of food donated over the years.

But local organiser Craig Crosthwaite is keen to thank those who have helped them and is now searching for a solution to help those in dire need.

Asda insist that Foodbank donations are welcome in their stores – but a volunteer needs to be present at all times, leaving it near impossible.

Craig said: “The information we were given was that smaller stores would no longer be involved with their communities through on-site visits by charities to raise funds nor static drop bins for the receipt of donations.

“This applies to the North Ayrshire Foodbank as much as those collecting dog and cat food or other non-perishable items.

“In the first place it is only right and proper that the North Ayrshire Foodbank recognises and thanks the colleagues of Asda Ardrossan as well as their shoppers for their support from the very start.

“Two names in particular are Katy Monaghan and Katy Buchanan who were both fervent supporters and champions of our cause, as I am sure they would have been of others seeking the assistance of the store. They were generous both with time and awareness raising. We also thank their colleagues for looking after the drop bin as it has been reported that thefts have happened.

“The shoppers of Asda Ardrossan have been extremely generous at our on-site collection events as well as the passive use of the permanent collection bin. Over the years 15 tons of food has been donated. That equates to one twelfth of the food we collect from compassionate donors across the local authority area. Thank you everybody for reaching out to your neighbours in need. We will sorely miss your support and involvement in our work.

“The changes does mean that we will be able to request on-site collection events at the larger store in Irvine and we look forward to receiving from Allie Gemmel, another hard working supporter of community organisations, dates to start those as we are critically short of certain food items as we have expended our cash reserves and used the donations from Christmas.

“Over 2015, the donated food assisted 5,032 people which included 1,589 children. Each and everyone of them assessed as in need by one of the 62 professional agencies who issue the food vouchers. The short-term supply of food has assisted 85 per cent of those receiving the food boxes to resolve their larger issues and get back onto their own two feet - helping people up rather than just handing food out.

“Sadly though, the siting of a permanent drop bin is not going to be allowed at this larger store which might have compensated for the loss of Asda Ardrossan.

“It is going to be an interesting year as we wait to see the impact of this decision on our capacity to offer assistance. The Foodbank has been offered two sites by Boots with considerations being made by Morrisons Stevenston whose sister store in Largs has started.

“These discussions are to be completed as are those with another agency.

“Please do remember that the Foodbank is open to donations being dropped off at the Ardrossan Church of the Nazarene each day from 10am to 2pm and on a Friday from 6pm to 8pm. We appreciate that this is not as convenient as the store itself but is the only alternative we can offer to local shoppers and supporters. It is our hope that the Trussell Trust, in their discussions with Asda House, will be able to bring about a change of heart.

“We have never received complaints from the Asda Ardrossan on behalf of their shoppers nor colleagues. Only kindness and generosity. Once again thank you.”

An Asda spokesperson said: “Asda plays an important role in the communities we serve and we know we can make a huge difference to local charities. Our customers are generous when it comes to good causes so we try to make sure we host a variety of charities in our stores.

“Foodbanks are very welcome to collect donations in Asda if volunteers are on hand to explain to customers where their donations are going, which we know increases the amount of food donated.

“Asda is a leader in the redistribution of food through our partnership with Fareshare and Company Shop, and we look forward to continuing to support them and local food banks in the future.”