Welshpool and District Foodbank to close after 13 years

The foodbank, run by couple Rob and Denise Field, has provided 121,000 meals to over 13,000 people in need over the last 13 years.

The closure took effect immediately, with the foodbank closing its doors yesterday (Monday, August 31).

In an announcement online, Mr Field said: “It is with sadness that we share the news that Welshpool & District Foodbank will permanently close its doors on August 31, 2026.

“After over 13 years of serving our community, we can longer carry on.

“The Foodbank was started and has been subsidised by Kingswood Church from the beginning.

“With my wife Denise, we have project managed the foodbank, and along with our wonderful volunteers we ran the weekly sessions, preparing emergency food parcels and meeting clients and referral partners etc.”

(Image: Powys County Council)

Mr Field revealed that he has recently been battling health issues and can no longer carry on in the role.

“We have been working with Trussell (Trust) for quite a while to find a group who could take on the foodbank so that there would be a smooth transition of provision,” added Mr Field.

“We had hoped that this was going to be the case, but we have learned that a potential possibility has just fallen through.

“Trussell Trust are working for a stop-gap solution until a new foodbank can open and we will be helping them toward that end.

“We will be passing on food, storage racking, and other foodbank related equipment to the new foodbank. We are in active discussion with Trussell and local charities, but we do not know yet what the full picture of the short-term or long-term cover will be.”

Mr Field has advised anyone who had standing orders or direct debits to cancel their payment and confirmed any residual funds will be passed on to the new foodbank or to the Trussell Trust.

He added: “To all the churches, supermarkets and their community champions, shops, schools, young farmers, scout groups, businesses, clubs, families, individuals and for all the volunteers that have helped over the years we thank you for your kind support.”

Welshpool County Councillor, Graham Breeze, said he was “deeply saddened” by the news and paid tribute to the work the Fields have done.

“Rob and Denise Field have given an extraordinary service to our community for more than 13 years,” said Cllr Breeze.

“Through their dedication, compassion and quiet determination, thousands of people have received support.

“Rob and Denise, together with their team of volunteers, have made a lasting difference to countless lives across Welshpool and the surrounding area.

“I was particularly proud to work alongside Rob and Denise during the Covid-19 pandemic through the Welshpool Community Angels initiative.

“At a time of unprecedented challenge, they stepped forward to help ensure that vulnerable residents received the support, food and practical assistance they needed.

“On behalf of the community, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Rob and Denise.

“Their work has embodied the very best of Welshpool's community spirit, and their legacy will be felt for many years to come.

“Their contribution has been truly exceptional and they should be immensely proud of the difference they have made to thousands of lives.”