Swindon residents who have helped to alleviate food poverty have been thanked by Tesco after the supermarket reached the milestone of donating 220 million meals to those in need.

Tesco paid tribute to volunteers, community groups and their colleagues as part of celebrations honouring the achievement made possible through its Community Food Connection programme, run in partnership with the food charity FareShare.

Almost 10 million meals’ worth of food has been donated in the Swindon region alone through this initiative.

Matthew Barnes, UK CEO of Tesco, said: "Tesco is immensely proud of its partnership with FareShare and the fantastic achievement of donating 220 million meals over the last 12 years.

"None of this could have been done without the passion, determination and drive of the countless people in places such as Swindon who have contributed to it, and it is to them today that we say a big thank you.

"But the hard work doesn’t stop here.

"While this is a momentous milestone, we remain committed to partnering with FareShare as we work towards our goal of halving food waste and getting more good food to people."

One of the groups that has benefited from the scheme is Vulnerable Assistance Network, which helps to combat food poverty in Swindon.

Vulnerable Assistance Network is one of the organisations which has benefitted from Tesco's schemeVulnerable Assistance Network is one of the organisations which has benefitted from Tesco's scheme (Image: Tiger Bond)

Joint founder, Debbie Deacon, said: "We are very grateful to Tesco for this food.

"It helps us distribute to as many people as we possibly can. Our volunteers work really hard. We don’t discriminate.

"If people need food, we will provide it for them."

Now in its 12th year, the collaboration between Tesco and FareShare helps to distribute surplus food from Tesco stores and distribution centres to FareShare’s network of charities, community groups and food banks.

The scheme plays a key role in reducing food waste and helping people in Swindon and across the UK.

George Wright, CEO of FareShare, said: "FareShare has worked with Tesco since 2012 to help alleviate poverty in the UK by ensuring surplus food within its supply chain is used to feed people and doesn’t end up as waste.

"Quite simply, FareShare could not do what we do without Tesco’s incredible support.

“The milestone of 220 million meals donated is a testament to all those involved in our partnership with Tesco.

"These 220 million meals have supported causes across the UK, from local community groups, charities and food banks helping those who need it most.”