LAUNCESTON Library users donated over 150 items as part of a ‘Food for Fines’ campaign this Christmas.

The library worked in conjunction with Launceston Foodbank throughout December with bookworms being given the option to pay their fines at the library by bringing in items, which were then transported down to the foodbank at Newport Industrial Estate.

A library spokesperson said: “The idea went really well, we had no detractors, nobody was negative about it and we received over 150 items of food. We had everything from basics such as flour, rice and toiletries to boxes of chocolates and biscuits, while anything fresh was collected immediately.”

It was organised by library manager Andi Snook and her foodbank counterpart Yvonne King.

The spokesperson added: “Andi and Yvonne worked in partnership. They are supportive of us, as we are with them.”

Yvonne said: “Launceston Foodbank hasn’t been involved with any scheme like this before. It’s a brilliant idea and perhaps it can be a template for other charities and groups.

“My understanding was the idea came from Cornwall Council and local libraries; Andi at Launceston Library loved the idea and put in the hard work to get it off the ground.

“It’s hugely important for everyone to support each other; it doesn’t matter if it’s through a charity, group or just your neighbours where you live. All the food made a massive difference to the foodbank. So many other schools and groups have donated food and gifts this Christmas which helped us provide 82 hampers to those in crisis to have a Christmas lunch as well as providing food for nearly 100 people the week before Christmas .

“Launceston has such kind and generous people who come together and support those not as fortunate as themselves whether it’s Christmas or not. A happy new year to you all.”

During December, Camelford Library took part in a county-wide initiative run by Cornwall Libraries called ‘Food for Fines’.

The idea behind the scheme was that in return for a donation of food, toiletries or hygiene products, the library would write off fines up to a total of £5.

Camelford Library received a small selection of goods which were passed onto volunteer Lexy McConnell from Camelford Community Larder on Thursday, January 2.