The Ayrshire East Foodbank has announced it has made the "difficult but necessary decision" to keep their operations going over the bank holiday weekend.

Many places across the area, including schools and GPs will be closed Friday and Monday, due to a combination of the September Weekend and The Queen's funeral on Monday.

READ MORE: Schools and council offices to shut for extra day after the Queen's funeral

However, the foodbank, who do amazing work in supporting people right across East Ayrshire, has decided to stay open on Friday and Monday.

They cite the continuing struggle people are in with the current cost of living crisis and, alarmingly, how they expect demand for their services to grow, as their reasons for staying open on both days.

In a statement, they said: "We have made the difficult but necessary decision to keep our foodbank open this Friday and Monday due to the increased demand of people struggling with the cost of living crisis and with further increases to fuel prices announced, we expect the number of people needing support will continue to grow.

READ MORE: East Ayrshire practices to be closed for September weekend

"If you are in a position to help, please support Ayrshire East Foodbank with any donations.

"EA Foodbank rely on amazing volunteers to support people facing hardship and help everyone in their community who needs it, foodbanks often need to stay open on bank holidays.

"If you need support this bank holiday weekend call 01563 574000 to be referred to your closest local foodbank".

Further information is available at the Ayrshire East Foodbank Facebook page.