THE boss of Colchester’s foodbank has thanked a generous electricity firm for donating two lorry-loads of meals with a difference.

The 18,000 self-heating meals were donated by UK Power Networks after they proved a hit with engineering crews working from their vans.

This is the first time that Colchester Foodbank have stocked self-heating meals which include a heat pad which can be activated to warm the meal and will help people living without access to kitchen facilities while reducing cooking costs for cash-strapped families.

Mike Beckett, who is the foodbank’s chief officer, said: “Many people will really appreciate having a self-heating curry or an all-day breakfast - and our team have tried them and say they’re excellent!

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“We sent out 700 nutritionally balanced food parcels last month, and if we send out 1,000 parcels next month, they can include three ready meals each - so we can use the 18,000 within six months.”

Gurdip Tumber, who works for the electricity distributor, was on hand to unload the delivery and said: “We know that some people are having to choose between heating and eating.

“We partner with many organisations to help support people living in vulnerable circumstances and this is one small way we can help.”