£1,000 was also donated by The Manufacturing Branch South East Wales of trade union Unite. Council leader Cllr Philippa Marsden said: “Christmas can be a difficult time for many and the events of the past year have created additional challenges for lots of our residents. Supporting food banks has never been more important and we’re delighted to have been able to co-ordinate our annual appeal again this year. “The amount donated this year has been incredible and will be a huge help in enabling food banks to replenish their supplies and continue providing emergency food parcels to those in financial crisis.”