Tooting and Mitcham Community Sports Club volunteers have been praised for their dedication to help Merton Council feed residents during the outbreak.

Established in May, the 'Community Cupboard' aimed to provide food cupboard essentials for those in need.

The scheme is a partnership of Merton Council’s Youth Employability Programme – Towards Employment, Merton Voluntary Service Council, Merton Community Transport and Tooting and Mitcham Community Sports Club.

Within the first week of the scheme, 81 households in Merton received support.

By the end of April, 259 parcels were donated to households from all over Merton, which equates to around 882 residents.

Residents say the food cupboard has been a great help, whilst they have struggled financially during the outbreak.

One resident said: "It felt a bit difficult as a father asking for help to feed my family.

"I felt very poor coming to collect my parcel but everyone was so friendly and treated me like family and I left feeling like a king."

The club would like to say a big thank you to their staff; Ashley, Emily, Cheyenne, Phil Steventon and Andy Harrup, who have helped sort, pack and distribute food parcels.

As well as, Alan Richards, who has provided a regular supply of donations to the Community Cupboard.

Director of Tooting & Mitcham Community Sports Club, Jackie Watkins, said: "We are very grateful for the support of our staff and volunteers.

"They have enabled the club and the council to help many families in need during these challenging times.

"This scheme is so important at this time as many have been struggling and feel embarrassed to ask for help.

"But those that have, leave feeling positive because of the community spirit of the club."