AN inquiry into hunger in Britain that will look at why there has been a surge in the use of foodbanks was launched in Salisbury on Friday.

The inquiry, launched by a cross-party group of MPs, saw John Glen MP visit Alabare Place drop-in centre, available to anyone of the age of 16 who is homeless or at risk of homelessness.

The charity provides shelter, hot food, drinks and advice, and also offers referrals to the Salisbury foodbank.

Mr Glen went along with Frank Field, member of Parliament for Birkenhead, who is the co-chairman of the inquiry.

They then visited the Trussell Trust foodbank at Elim Church before an evidence session with Bishop Nicholas Holtam, Colin Brady, social justice programme manager for the Diocese of Salisbury, Wiltshire councillor Dick Tonge, cabinet member for finance, risk and welfare reform, and Wiltshire Citizens Advice Bureau.

The day finished with a further evidence session with food aid providers, charities and their clients.