AN MP has thanked Aldi for donating food to needy people in his constituency on Christmas Eve.

Stuart Andrew, who represents Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough, said he was delighted by the efforts of the chain’s stores to give surplus fresh food to local charities.

He said: “Christmas can be a lovely time for many of us, but for those in need it can be an additional strain on their budget and it can have a detrimental effect on many of my constituents.

“I am so pleased to learn that the efforts of Aldi to donate their surplus fresh food to my constituents meant an incredible 1,181 meals were donated, which would have made a really significant impact on those who need an additional hand around Christmas while contributing to a real reduction in food waste.

“I would like to personally thank Aldi for this kind imitative and I look forward to seeing their work with local communities now we have entered 2019.”