AShBURTON'S food bank is starting to pay dividends for the needy of the town.

The facility, which had a slow start when it opened its account earlier in the spring, is attracting more support each day.

So far 26 food parcels have been distributed to those who qualify for the charity scheme's vital handouts.

Brian Lewis, chairman of the food bank's management committee, has paid tribute to the generosity of the townspeople who have supported the enterprise.