Prince William and Kate Middleton offer to replace all the food stolen from a foodbank

The Prince and Princess of Wales have offered to replace all the food stolen from a foodbank based at a church in South Wales.

In September 2022, Kate, 41, and Prince William, 40, visited St Thomas Church in Swansea. They hailed the church-run foodbank as a ‘lifeline’ for struggling people.

But the site was broken into and all the food supplies stolen meaning hungry people had to be turned away following the overnight raid, in which baby toys and an orange bike were also taken. 

Earlier today, the Prince and Princess contacted Reverend Steve Bunting to ‘offer their love and support’. They also said they would like to replace the food that was stolen, Rev Bunting told ITV News.

He said he believes the thief may have been a ‘desperate’ previous user of the foodbank, who now needed help.

‘The Prince and Princess of Wales contacted us earlier to offer their love and support,’ said Rev Bunting.

He added: ‘They would like to replace the food that was taken. They very much want to do that.’

The Reverend has reported the burglary to South Wales Police because he wants to help those responsible.

He said that being arrested would be ‘another step in the wrong direction’ as the thief was not in a good place.

He continued: ‘I think the likelihood is that it was someone who has previously used us, which makes it all the sadder.

‘If someone had come in and said, “I’m absolutely desperate, I need £20,” it would have been easier for us to give it to them.’

Earlier today, the Prince and Princess contacted Reverend Steve Bunting (pictured) to ‘offer their love and support’. They also said they would like to replace the food that was stolen, Rev Bunting told ITV News

In September 2022, Kate, 41, and Prince William, 40, visited St Thomas Church in Swansea (pictured). They hailed the church-run foodbank as a ‘lifeline’ for struggling people

Rev Bunting added: ‘Someone has got to be desperate to think a food bank is the best thing to steal from.’

The community has since rallied around the church with food donations along with a £250 donation from Swansea Dockers Sports and Social Club.

Rev Bunting said: ‘For every bad act there are 10, 20 good ones, often anonymous, it is incredibly heart-warming.’

The church has been running the food bank for around seven years and supports up to 200 people.

The Prince and Princess of Wales delighted families and churchgoers when they visited the food bank last September (pictured)

The Prince and Princess of Wales delighted families and churchgoers when they visited the food bank last September.

Speaking at the time, Kate said: ‘There is amazing work going on here. Keep up the hard work.’

Food bank volunteer Pat Hughes, said: ‘It was lovely to chat with the Princess and it’s something we won’t forget.’

MailOnline has contacted Kensington Palace for comment.