The annual charity food collection returns after Covid-19 restrictions forced it to be postponed earlier this year.

The annual Tinathon is taking place at West's Centre today (1 October), seeking donations for the Shelter Trust for the Homeless.

All donated of canned foods will be sorted ready either to supplement food supplies for the shelter residents or for distribution in food parcels for the needy.

Organisers are hoping for strong public support this year after the coronavirus pandemic saw a significant increase in the number of homeless people and families the support of the Shelter Trust.

Richard Robins, Trustee of The Shelter Trust, told Channel 103 that support is needed more than ever this year.

"Since covid hit us, the number of people staying at the shelter has increased from around 80 to 120.

It's around a 50% increase so we're needing more donations to help those in need.

Every help we can get from the public is warmly welcomed."

Delighted to have the Shelter Trust back in @StHelierJsy for their annual Tinathon in West’s Centre 🥫 pic.twitter.com/jGLk8GFvtF

— Connor Burgher (@Connor_Burgher) October 1, 2021

Businesses. schools and members of the public are invited to bring tins of meat, fish, vegetables, soup or fruit to West's Centre until 2.30pm.

Numerous locations around the island have also been accepting donations this past week, including sites at Waitrose, M&S Food and The National Trust office at The Elms.