Mystery donor ‘more famous than Hugh Grant’ helps save Burnley food drive from closure

A mystery donor from London considered ‘more famous than Hugh Grant’ has helped save a Burnley food drive from closure.

The man, who wished to remain anonymous, has pledged to give £5,000 a month to the cause.

James Anderson founder of Depher Community Food Drive, which helps people struggling financially, announced on Facebook last week that the service would permanently close at the end of the month due to a lack of funding and a 40% weekly loss.

In a post on the Facebook page, he wrote: “The @depher_cic23 fooddrive, sadly, will be permanently closed on the 30th of July.

“However, we can still support you with a food delivery to your door by Asda that we purchase for you. Also, we can give you top-ups on your gas and electricity meters, reducing the #CostOfLivingCrisis Impact on your family.

“There is no age restriction on this offer, and we cover the whole of the #UnitedKingdom.”

But Mr Anderson, who received a British Citizen Award last month for his work providing free heating and plumbing to the vulnerable, has confirmed it will now remain open indefinitely after the anonymous man has pledged the donations

In another Facebook post updating users of the food drive, Mr Anderson wrote: “A gentleman who I cannot mention has now come on board to support Depher Community fund with an astonishing £5,000 per month.

“This amazing amount bridges the gap, and will reduce our loss to very little.

“A massive boost for Disabled & Elderly Plumbing & Heating Emergency Repairs (D.E.P.H.E.R ) and Burnley, Lancashire.

“Especially our elderly, vulnerable and disabled members of the community. The food drive will now stay open. Thank you so much.”

To access help and support, contact James on info@depher.co.uk or 01282 420678. You can make a donation to Depher on the Go Fund Me page by clicking HERE.