Barbie Paterson, secretary of the Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank, told the Advertiser that the voluntary organisation formed last month after the need for the service was identified.

Following a needs assessment and several meetings, a small ‘enthusiastic’ group of eight – many of whom are from local churches – agreed to set up a foodbank, which is now chaired by Morevain Martin from Argyll Voluntary Action.

The non-politicial service aims to distribute food to those in need, provide information, advice, and support to individuals on social wellbeing, and raise awareness of the issues affecting communities.

The foodbank will open on Monday, November 3, and the service will operate every Monday and Friday from the Red Cross Hall on East Princes Street.

Following visits to other foodbanks, the committee created an independent service, and although Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank may have referrals from other agencies, it will not require a formal referral from attendees, or a foodbank voucher.

Ms Paterson said the committee has been encouraged by the amount of businesses that have expressed an interest in helping.

She added: “The committee feels the people of Helensburgh have an inexhaustible fund of goodwill and empathy for those in need and that many will be glad to donate a little each week or commit to helping with the distribution of food. It will truly be a community project.” For those interested in helping email helensburghfoodbank@gmail.com.