KIND-HEARTED paratroopers have given a big boost to Colchester Foodbank just in time for the busy festive period.

Staff from Colchester’s Merville Barracks, the regimental headquarters of the Parachute Regiment, helped secure a huge haul of essentials for the charity by asking for donations at the base.

Airborne troops Lance Corporal Max Pelling and Private Harry Asquith-Beard delivered the 30kg care package to warehouse staff by hand.

The care package included items from the foodbank’s Christmas appeal like biscuit selection boxes, festive snacks and toiletries.

Colchester Foodbank, located in Eastgates, Colchester, is supporting 467 adults and 268 children over the festive period, which is set to be its busiest ever.

Since January more than 58 tonnes of items have been distributed.