AN exclusive guest list of invitees enjoyed a tea party lunch at the Olive Mill restaurant in Bridgwater to raise awareness for the local food bank.

The event was held on may 14 with those who attended bringing donations for the collection.

Organiser Kristina Ellis said: "We were so happy with how the event turned out and are very grateful for everyone who came out to support us and the food bank.

"We had more people turn up on the day then expected, all bearing bags of food donations.

"We also received some envelopes containing cash and cheques from some very generous customers.

"Everyone who donated was treated to a high tea lunch, which was very well received.

"The homemade scones were particularly appreciated.

"After lunch there was much enjoyment had by everyone outside on the terrace, with traditional fete games, kindly supplied by Rosemary Silverson of Box Clever Wedding Bridgwater.

"We couldn’t be more pleased and would like give a massive thank you to everyone."

the food bank is a cause close to Kristina's heart.

She said: "Being brought up in south east London, I was used to seeing poverty and homelessness all around.

"I remember some very tough times growing up at home in a single parent family.

"I’m sure some weeks we barely scraped by and although we were mostly okay, I was very aware that we were only one small financial emergency away from a crisis.

"The Bridgwater food bank touched both myself and my partner Mark.

"Being a proud chef he really can’t stand the idea of someone not having enough to eat.

"We knew we wanted to do something to support them and raise awareness of all the good work they do.

"All of the donations collected will be sorted into emergency food parcels and delivered to those in crisis directly in Bridgwater.

"We owe a special thanks to food bank representatives, Mr and Mrs Loveday and Mr and Mrs Hinkley who came along."