THE MANAGER of the Bracknell Food Bank has retired, and her successor has been named.

Pat Hallett, who opened the food bank at Kerith Community Church nine years ago with her husband, Geoff, has become a well-loved member of the community.

She will be replaced by Claire Mather, who has been assistant since September 2016.

Mrs Hallett said: “It’s been a privilege to serve at the Food Bank with such a fantastic team of volunteers and to see people’s lives being restored. I shall really miss the camaraderie of the team & the clients.”

Simon Benham, senior pastor of Kerith Community Church, said: “‘People often walk in to a Food Bank feeling ashamed, embarrassed and without hope, never having imagined they would ever need to rely on others in order to feed themselves and their families.

“Pat, and the team she lead, had an ability to make sure each of those people felt welcomed, valued and loved. For Pat Food Bank was never primarily about food, but about practically demonstrating God’s love for people. She will be hugely missed by all of us.”