Tesco has thanked the Welsh community after achieving the landmark of providing 220 million meals to those in need.

The meals were donated through the supermarket's Community Food Connection programme, run in partnership with food charity FareShare.

The Welsh public has played a crucial role in this achievement.

Supermarkets in Newtown Cattle Market, Welshpool, and Llandrindod Wells donated 103,632, 56,031 and 75,018 meals respectively.

Collectively, the country has contributed 8,119,362.09 meals over the years.

To mark the occasion, Tesco is honouring the volunteers, community groups and Tesco colleagues who have contributed to the success of the initiative.

Matthew Barnes, UK CEO of Tesco, said: "Tesco is immensely proud of its partnership with FareShare and the fantastic achievement of donating 220 million meals over the last 12 years.

"None of this could have been done without the passion, determination and drive of the countless people in places such as Wales who have contributed to it, and it is to them today that we say a big thank you.

"But the hard work doesn’t stop here.

"While this is a momentous milestone, we remain committed to partnering with FareShare as we work towards our goal of halving food waste and getting more good food to people."

One of the organisations that have benefited is the Michael Climer Legacy Fund, which has participated in the campaign for three years.

The charity supports a food cooperative at the Holy Trinity Church Hall in Ystrad Mynach.

Since partnering with Tesco in 2019, the charity has been able to distribute food to local families who struggle to afford meals.

Judith Climer, treasurer at the Michael Climer Legacy Fund, said: "Tesco have been such amazing partners to us.

"Since our weekly food cooperative was opened in 2021 a great deal more food was needed to supply demand.

"Tesco have supplied a great deal of end of day produce which has boosted the provisions for our users and at the same time ensured less food waste."

She also said: "Thank you, Tesco.

"We look forward to continuing our joint aim to improve wellbeing and reduce food waste."

Tesco and FareShare have been running their surplus food donation programme for 12 years.

The scheme sees excess food from Tesco stores and distribution centres donated to FareShare's network of charities, food banks and community groups to help reduce poverty and food waste.

George Wright, CEO of FareShare, said: "FareShare has worked with Tesco since 2012 to help alleviate poverty in the UK by ensuring surplus food within its supply chain is used to feed people and doesn’t end up as waste.

"Quite simply, FareShare could not do what we do without Tesco’s incredible support.

"The milestone of 220 million meals donated is a testament to all those involved in our partnership with Tesco.

"These 220 million meals have supported causes across the UK, from local community groups, charities and food banks helping those who need it most."