A local food bank has received a royal thank you after its “remarkable” efforts during lockdown.

On 2nd March, Queen Elizabeth’s personal representative for Greater London visited the PL84U Al-Suffa food bank, supported by world food brand Tropical Sun, to pass on her gratitude.

Since 2013, the cross-community interfaith initiative has provided food, companionship and clothes to the elderly, homeless and others in need, from all faiths, beliefs and backgrounds.

Earlier this year founder Saira Begum Mir received a British Empire Medal for her services to the borough, which she said was a “credit to each and every” person involved in the charity.

Royal representative Sir Kenneth Olisa with Saira Begum Mir, George Phillips, Farooq Mir, Emma Macorison and Paul Harrison

Royal representative Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE told gathered volunteers: “During the lockdown period, when you rose up to help everybody, it was really remarkable. The work that you’re doing, to me, symbolises so much that’s great about our country.

“What was remarkable about the whole Covid experience was how communities just came together and helped each other.

“People who didn’t know who their neighbour was asked themselves ‘that old lady who lives around the corner, I wonder if she’s OK?’ and went to find out.

“It is really, really encouraging. So, on behalf of the Queen, a HUGE, HUGE thank you.”

Sir Kenneth spent the rest of his visit chipping in alongside volunteers to help distribute food, including items donated by Tropical Sun.

The world food brand is owned by local company Wanis International Foods, one of the largest private employers in the borough, and thus was keen to help out a charity close to home.

Wanis commercial director George Phillips, said: “It is an honour to be able to support this amazing charity and we are delighted that their hard work has been recognised by Her Majesty.”

If you would like to help support the work of PL84U AL-SUFFA you can donate by visiting www.pl84ualsuffa.co.uk

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