United fans urged to support foodbank on match day

Manchester United fans are being urged to bring more than just their best chanting voices this weekend.

The Manchester South Central Foodbank will be outside Old Trafford during Sunday's clash with Arsenal.

The charity have partnered with the Manchester United Supports Trust (MUST) for the next season, to set up regular donation and collection points during matches.

Michelle McHale, from Manchester South Central, will be manning the stand at Sir Matt Busby Way on Sunday:

"At the moment we're giving out approximately two-tonnes of food per month and we have about five tonnes in stock, so technically we have enough food to keep us open for the next few months, securely. It means without lots of these donations we face the real threat of closure.

"I think for us it's about letting the wider community know that we're there - if you're not going to the match and you live in the local community and want to donate then we'll be there.

"As well as the food donations and small donations of cash that could come it, it's about raising awareness of the foodbank issue and just letting people know that we are out there and we need the community's support.

"Having the support of Manchester United is massive. I know other clubs do it, we're just hoping we can replicate the success of what other clubs do and that it is more of a success in terms of community focus for the foodbanks and the supporters."

The Foodbank volunteers will be outside Unit 8 on Sir Matt Busby Way on Sunday afternoon, ahead of the 4:30pm kick off.

They are asking anyone with donations to bring along non-perishable items, including tins of fruit and vegetables, packets of cereal, biscuits, crisps and pasta.